Rashid Latif Sparks Controversy by Calling Mike Hesson an 'India Agent'

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has stirred controversy by labeling coach Mike Hesson an 'India agent' due to his IPL connections. As Pakistan faces a challenging Test series against England, Latif's remarks have ignited backlash on social media, with fans questioning the logic behind linking Hesson's IPL ties to the team's struggles. This article delves into the implications of Latif's comments and the ongoing performance issues faced by the Pakistan cricket team.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 10, 2026, 20:52 IST

Controversial Remarks by Rashid Latif

Rashid Latif, the former captain and wicketkeeper-batter of Pakistan, has ignited a debate by accusing Mike Hesson, the team's white-ball and interim red-ball coach, of being an 'India agent' due to his connections with the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Mike Hesson's Coaching Journey

Hesson took on the role of Pakistan's white-ball coach in May 2025 after Gary Kirsten resigned, citing frustrations with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and internal conflicts. Recently, he was appointed as the red-ball coach amid a significant overhaul of the coaching staff during the ongoing series in England, where the PCB sent seven players home.

Pakistan's Struggles in Test Series

The former New Zealand cricketer is now responsible for managing Pakistan's struggling Test team at Edgbaston, where they were dismissed for just 133 runs in their first innings, marking their fifth consecutive outing without surpassing the 200-run threshold in this Test series.

Latif's Critique of Hesson

As Pakistan faces a challenging tour, trailing 0-2 against a formidable English side, Latif's comments have raised eyebrows. He compared Hesson to past foreign coaches like Bob Woolmer and Geoff Lawson, who he believes had a genuine commitment to Pakistan cricket. Latif expressed concerns about the potential conflicts of interest arising from Hesson's IPL background, stating, "The loyalty factor is very important, and it remains doubtful."

He further elaborated, "I am not saying someone is not loyal. He might be of course; he might, but it's better if these things are checked. Check the history. The connection would be there."

Social Media Reaction

Latif's allegations have triggered a wave of criticism on social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter). Fans and cricket analysts have condemned his 'India agent' assertion, questioning the rationale behind linking Hesson's IPL ties to Pakistan's current performance issues.

Many users on X criticized Latif's statements, while others ridiculed the notion that Hesson's IPL connections could affect his loyalty or coaching effectiveness. Some argued that the team's poor results should be attributed to their own shortcomings rather than external factors like India or the IPL.

Continued Struggles for Pakistan

Despite the ongoing controversy, the Babar Azam-led team is grappling with the reality of a 0-2 series deficit against England, facing an uphill battle to avoid a complete whitewash as they contend with a dominant bowling attack in conditions favorable for seam and swing.