How Important Was Winning a Final Under Pressure Before the Asia Cup, According to Hesson?

Sharjah, Sep 8 (NationPress) Following Pakistan's impressive 75-run victory over Afghanistan in the T20I Tri-series, head coach Mike Hesson expressed his satisfaction with the team's ability to clinch a final under pressure just before their Asia Cup campaign begins on Tuesday in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. During the final held at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Mohammad Nawaz, the left-arm spinner, showcased his talent by taking five wickets, including a remarkable hat-trick, guiding Pakistan to defend their score of 141/8 by bowling Afghanistan out for just 66 in 15.2 overs.

Nawaz was awarded the player of the tournament for the Tri-series, accumulating 120 runs and 10 wickets. Notably, he is the sole player in the current squad who has participated in both the 2016 and 2022 T20I editions of the Men’s Asia Cup.

“I am pleased with the team’s progress. We managed to overcome Afghanistan in conditions that favored their spin attack, which is a significant confidence booster. Winning a final under pressure before the Asia Cup was crucial for us,” Hesson shared with PCB Digital on Monday.

“Mohammad Nawaz has been exceptional. He has been recognized as the player of the series in both the tri-series and against the West Indies in the USA. Since his return to the team, he has shown greater confidence and tactical awareness in bowling during critical moments. He is an invaluable asset across all three formats,” he continued.

Hesson also commended left-handed batsman Fakhar Zaman, noting, “Fakhar has regained his confidence throughout the tri-series after recovering from injury. His 77 not out was a vital contribution, even though he began slowly.”

“He is adjusting his game to various conditions; it’s not always feasible to score at a strike rate of 160, but he has the adaptability to change his approach when necessary. His performances with the bat and in the field have been commendable.”

Pakistan's first match in the Asia Cup will be against Oman in Dubai on September 12, followed by clashes with India and the UAE on September 14 and 17, respectively. The top two teams from each group will advance to the super four stage, where they will compete in a round-robin format.

The top two teams at the conclusion of the Super Four will qualify for the final, set to take place in Dubai on September 28. Under Hesson’s leadership, Pakistan has played 14 T20Is and secured 10 victories.

“An eight-team Asia Cup is exciting for Asian cricket. It serves as a genuine test, broadening the game's reach in the region, and allows us to encounter players we seldom face. Our group is competitive with Oman, UAE, and India. Although we have conducted our scouting, we must adapt swiftly,” he stated.

“The key is to remain focused and not be sidetracked by external pressures. We need to concentrate on each match, qualify for the Super Four, and maintain consistent performance to advance further. The team that best manages these challenges will ultimately win the tournament,” Hesson concluded.