‘Real Dhurandhar in Pakistani Team’, Netizens React As Rashid Latif Calls Pakistan Coach Mike Hesson Indian Agent

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has sparked a wave of disbelief and ridicule on social media after floating a bizarre conspiracy theory that national team coach Mike Hesson could be an 'Indian agent'. The unsubstantiated claim, which referenced Hesson's lengthy coaching stint in the Indian Premier League (IPL), was quickly mocked by netizens, with many jokingly comparing the ex-cricketer's remarks to the plot of a Bollywood espionage thriller. 'Indian Agent': Rashid Latif Makes Shock Allegation Against Pakistan Coach Mike Hesson.

The Viral Conversation

Latif’s comments surfaced in a widely circulated video segment alongside sports broadcaster Dr Nauman Niaz. Without presenting any concrete evidence, Latif questioned the loyalty of foreign coaches who have previously worked in the IPL. He specifically targeted Hesson, suggesting his past associations in India made him a suspicious appointment for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Though Latif attempted to maintain plausible deniability by stating he was merely 'thinking out loud' and not explicitly naming anyone at first, the insinuation that the New Zealander was working against Pakistan's interests was unambiguous.

Netizens React with 'Dhurandhar' Memes

The gravity of Latif's allegations, combined with the underlying cricketing context, has predictably led to a flurry of reactions on social media. Pakistani netizens, in particular, have responded with a mix of humour and disbelief. Many have referenced the Bollywood film 'Dhurandhar' (meaning 'master' or 'expert'), creating memes and jokes around the idea of Hesson being an 'Indian agent' and labeling him a 'Real Dhurandhar in Pakistani Team.' This ironic take highlights the sensational nature of Latif's accusations and the public's engagement with the unfolding drama.

'Real Dhurandhar in Pakistani Team'

So paaijane Now hesson is the real Dhurandhar in Pakistani Team😂😂🤣👌😆🤦

— CenterToRight (@Rohan35278387) September 10, 2026

'Mike Hesson Ali Mazari'

Mike Hesson Ali Mazari according to Rashid Latif and Nauman Niaz. pic.twitter.com/Z3XOTQcRdr

— Akul (𝑨𝑻10) (@Loyalsachfan10) September 10, 2026

'Dhurandhar Mike Hesson'

Dhurandhar Mike Hesson 🤣🤣 https://t.co/O4WrCNRVpO

— King Maximus (@Pe4seve9ra5ceup) September 10, 2026

'Dhurandar Effect'

Dhurandar effect ... they think everyone is a spy now 😀😀... akhri me dr numan niaz bhi spy nikalega

— vineet kanungo (@vineetkanungo) September 10, 2026

The Edgbaston Context

The controversial remarks were made as Pakistan faced a difficult start to the third Test match against England in their 2026 tour. Pakistan had endured a poor performance on Day 1 at Edgbaston on September 9, 2026, being dismissed for a meagre 133 runs in their first innings. White-ball head coach Mike Hesson, 51, who was temporarily handed charge of the Test side after Sarfaraz Ahmed was removed as Test head coach in August 2026, found himself under heightened scrutiny following the team's struggles. This marked Hesson's first Test in charge of the Pakistan side. Pakistan were already 2-0 down in the three-match series heading into this third Test. UK: Anti-Migrant Protesters Mistake Pakistan U-19 Cricket Team for Asylum Seekers Outside Hotel.

Mike Hesson's Coaching Pedigree

Hesson boasts an impressive coaching resume, having previously guided the New Zealand national team to the final of the 2015 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup between 2012 and 2018. His extensive experience also includes coaching Argentina (2003), Kenya (2005-2012), and Otago (2005-2011) in New Zealand's domestic circuit. He also had a stint as head coach with Kings XI Punjab in the IPL in 2019, before his role as Director of Cricket Operations with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Most recently, before joining the Pakistan national setup, Hesson successfully led the Islamabad United franchise to victory in the 2024 Pakistan Super League (PSL) championship. He was appointed Pakistan's white-ball head coach on May 13, 2025, taking over on May 26, 2025.

While the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is yet to officially comment on Latif's remarks, the controversy underscores the intense scrutiny and passionate debate that often surrounds the national cricket team, particularly during challenging periods. The allegations against Hesson are likely to keep the cricketing fraternity and fans alike engaged in discussions regarding coaching loyalty and national team performance as the third Test continues at Edgbaston.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 10, 2026 01:47 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).