Pakistan's Batting Strategy Under Scrutiny: Mohammad Haris Defends Approach Amid Strike-Rate Concerns

Mohammad Haris addressed the pressure on Pakistan’s batters following head coach Mike Hesson’s remarks on the importance of strike-rate in T20 cricket.

On Friday, September 12, Pakistan made a strong start to their Asia Cup 2025 campaign with a 93-run victory over Oman at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Ahead of the match, Hesson had stressed the significance of strike-rates while explaining the absence of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from the squad. Responding to that, Haris—who holds the record for Pakistan’s second-fastest T20I century—said the team is confident, having performed well in Bangladesh, the West Indies, and the UAE.

“Look, this team has already proved itself. We went to Dhaka and put up 180. No other team has managed 180 in Mirpur if you check. We scored 180 in the West Indies as well, and 200 in Sharjah. Pakistan’s team hasn’t scored 200 in the UAE yet, but we did it there too,” Haris said in the post-match press conference.

“So the team’s approach will remain the same as the way we’ve been playing. That’s both the suggestion and the direction coming from the coach and the captain,” Haris added.

Mohammad Haris returns to form

After a lean patch where he struggled to reach double figures, Mohammad Haris bounced back in style to claim the Player of the Match award against Oman. Batting at No. 3, the right-hander struck 66 off 43 balls, laced with seven fours and three sixes.

His knock powered Pakistan to a competitive 160 for seven, before their bowlers dismissed Oman for just 67 in 16.4 overs. After the triumph, Pakistan moved to second in the table with two points and a net run rate of +4.650.

With the commanding 93-run win, Pakistan will now look to carry their momentum into a high-stakes clash against Suryakumar Yadav’s India on Sunday, September 14, in Dubai.