Mike Hesson inspires Pakistan before Asia Cup final

Pakistan  – (Special Correspondent / Web Desk) – Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson has given his full support to his players ahead of the much-awaited Asia Cup 2025 final against India. He reminded the team that they have “earned the right” to compete for the title, despite facing challenges both on and off the field.

Pakistan reached the final after a thrilling comeback win over Bangladesh in the Super Four, a match that felt like a semi-final. This victory secured their place in Sunday’s showdown at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Remarkably, it will be the first-ever Pakistan-India Asia Cup final since the tournament began in 1984. But as excitement builds, Pakistan’s preparations are being affected by an ICC disciplinary process. Some players must attend a hearing on Friday over alleged conduct breaches from earlier matches.

Hesson stayed firm in his message. “We’ve deserved this opportunity,” he told reporters. “All the games before now were about getting to this stage. Now it’s about performing when it matters most.”

With media attention growing around the ICC hearing — related to emotional celebrations and gestures in games against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh — Hesson stressed that the team’s focus must remain on cricket. “Look, my message is simple: we focus only on cricket. Big games bring emotions, but our job is to play well,” he said.

The coach has led Pakistan through a year of big changes and admitted the team struggled at first against Bangladesh. Reduced to 33 for four, Pakistan’s innings seemed in danger, but the lower order and star bowlers turned things around.

He praised Shaheen Shah Afridi and Agha Salman for keeping Pakistan alive on a tough pitch, before the bowlers sealed the win with top-class precision. Hesson also highlighted how vital adaptability is on such surfaces. “It’s not about perfect shots — it’s about smart decisions, fighting for runs, and playing with heart,” he explained.

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Looking ahead to India — a team Pakistan hasn’t beaten in seven recent matches — Hesson dismissed any talk of mental pressure. “Not at all. Last time we had them for long periods, but one special innings changed the game. This time we must keep the pressure for longer,” he said confidently.

As Pakistan prepares for the high-stakes final while also facing off-field distractions, the challenge is huge. Yet Hesson believes his squad has the mental strength and determination to rise to the occasion and deliver when it matters most.