Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson has expressed confidence in his young squad as they prepare for a much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025 clash against India on Sunday at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Speaking to reporters before Pakistan’s group match against Oman on September 12, Hesson described the upcoming Pakistan-India game as a special occasion.
“I’ve watched many Pakistan-India matches from the outside, sometimes as a coach and sometimes as a commentator. To now be part of it from within is a wonderful experience. The key is for the team to stay focused and do their job,” he said.
Balanced Squad and Conditions in Dubai
Addressing conditions in Dubai, Hesson noted that the pitch is quite different from Sharjah but expressed confidence in Pakistan’s balanced squad.
“Pakistan has five quality spinners, with Mohammad Nawaz among the best in the world right now, and our pace attack is also strong. We are well-equipped to play in all types of conditions,” he explained.
Honest Assessment of Batting Line-up
When asked about criticism of Pakistan’s batting line-up, Hesson defended his players but acknowledged the need for improvement.
“This is a developing batting unit. In Sharjah, we often scored more than our targets, which was a positive sign. Several batters are working to regain form, and we expect them to deliver soon,” he added.
Strike Rate Concerns for Babar and Rizwan
The head coach did not shy away from openly discussing the performances of star batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, particularly their strike rates.
Hesson explained that in modern cricket, strike rate is a crucial factor, and it was important for senior players to adapt.
“I’ve spoken with Babar and Rizwan about their strike rates and performances in recent matches. Coaches need to be honest with players, pointing out weaknesses so they can improve,” he said.
Building for the Challenge Ahead
Despite the scrutiny, Hesson insisted that both players remain vital to Pakistan’s plans and praised their ability to handle pressure. He emphasized that the team is not afraid of challenges and will approach the India clash with determination.
