Mike Hesson faces criticism after Pakistan’s T20 WC exit:Players reportedly lodge complaint against head coach; PCB to issue warning

Pakistan’s white-ball head coach Mike Hesson has come under heavy criticism after the team’s disappointing campaign in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The team was knocked out during the Super 8 stage, leading to growing concerns within the Pakistan cricket setup. The issue became more serious after reports surfaced that selector Aleem Dar resigned from the selection committee. According to reports, Dar stepped down due to concerns about Hesson’s strong control over team selection matters. Now, a fresh report has claimed that some players were also unhappy with the coach’s behaviour during the tournament. The complaints have reportedly reached the Pakistan Cricket Board, prompting officials to review the situation. Players raise concerns over coach’s conduct According to a report by Geo News, several players questioned Hesson’s approach during the T20 World Cup campaign. The concerns were mainly related to his ‘planning, authority and man-management’. While the Pakistan Cricket Board is not expected to remove Hesson immediately, senior officials have started examining the team’s tour report. After reviewing the details, the board is expected to hold discussions with the New Zealand coach. The report also stated that the PCB is preparing to issue a warning to Hesson. Officials reportedly believe that ‘flawed planning and unilateral decision-making harmed the team’s performance.’ PCB’s selection authority sparks internal tension Sources quoted in the report suggested that Hesson’s increasing authority has created tension within the team management. His growing influence has reportedly caused issues with both the selection committee and team captain Salman Ali Agha. The same issue is believed to be the main reason behind Aleem Dar’s resignation from the selection panel. According to insiders, Hesson has been exercising wide control over team matters, including important decisions related to team selection. This level of authority reportedly made coordination difficult between the coach, selectors and the captain. Dressing room concerns and player complaints During the tournament, a video clip also circulated on social media showing captain Salman Agha appearing frustrated with Hesson in the dugout. Although the team management dismissed speculation at the time, the report claims that multiple players privately approached PCB officials with concerns. The Geo News report stated that “several Pakistan players are said to have individually approached PCB officials to complain about the coach’s behaviour.” Hesson’s authoritative approach reportedly unsettled the dressing room atmosphere. The report also claimed that the coach made several key decisions without consulting the captain. Selection decisions under scrutiny Some of Hesson’s team selection choices during the tournament have also come under criticism. According to the report, he decided to keep players like Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay and Abrar Ahmed out of the playing XI for most of the tournament. These players were eventually included only in Pakistan’s final match against Sri Lanka national cricket team. As the PCB continues its review, the coming weeks could be crucial for Hesson’s future with the Pakistan team. While immediate action appears unlikely, the board’s internal discussions may determine how the team moves forward after its World Cup disappointment.