(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Pakistan Cricket Team Pays Tribute to Head Coach Mike Hesson’s Late Mother During Team Dinner in Karachi
In a heartfelt show of unity, the Pakistan national cricket team came together in Karachi to offer their condolences to head coach Mike Hesson on the recent passing of his mother. The emotional tribute took place during a team dinner hosted by team manager Naveed Akram Cheema, marking the beginning of the squad’s preparations for the upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh.
A Moment of Respect Before the Camp
Held at a local venue, the dinner brought together players, coaches, and support staff in an atmosphere of reflection and togetherness. Before the evening officially began, the entire group observed a one-minute silence to honor the memory of Hesson’s mother. The moment, led by senior members of the team, was a touching reminder of the values of compassion and respect that run deep within the squad.
Mike Hesson, who was appointed as Pakistan’s white-ball head coach earlier this year, has quickly earned the trust and admiration of both players and staff. The gesture of solidarity offered by the team highlighted the strong bond developing under his leadership—both on and off the field.
Training Camp Kicks Off Ahead of Bangladesh Tour
The dinner also served as an informal kickoff to the white-ball training camp, which officially began today (July 9) at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi. The camp will continue through July 15 and includes:
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The 15-member squad selected for the T20I series against Bangladesh
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Five additional players, including senior stars like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan
This tour will mark Hesson’s first overseas assignment as Pakistan’s coach, and the camp is expected to play a key role in fine-tuning team strategies and assessing player readiness.
Leadership and Preparation in Focus
A press conference by Pakistan’s T20I captain Salman Ali Agha is scheduled for the final day of the camp. He is expected to speak about the team’s preparations, leadership responsibilities, and the evolving dynamic within the dressing room.
A Moment Beyond Cricket
While the team now turns its focus to on-field performance, the moment shared at the dinner served as a deeper reminder of the camaraderie being built under the current management. For Mike Hesson, whose coaching career has spanned across multiple countries, the tribute offered something truly meaningful—the support of a united team standing with him in a time of personal grief.
