Asia Cup Final: Only Match That Matters Is Against India, Says Pakistan Coach Hesson

Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson dismissed concerns over consecutive losses to India in the ongoing Asia Cup, stressing that the upcoming final against their arch-rivals is the only match that truly matters.

India defeated Pakistan twice in this edition, first by seven wickets in the group stage and later by six wickets in the Super 4s.

“We know we played on the 14th and the 21st. But the only match that really counts is the one at the end. That will be our focus, to play our best game when it matters,” Hesson said after Pakistan sealed their final berth with an 11-run win over Bangladesh on Thursday.

Hesson emphasised that all matches leading up to the final were about preparation. “Now it’s up to us to make the most of it. Every game so far has been about getting into a position to win the trophy. That’s what we’ve been talking about the whole time,” he added.

This year’s final will be historic, as India and Pakistan have never contested an Asia Cup title clash since the tournament’s launch in Sharjah in 1984.

Responds to Off-Field Issues

Pakistan’s media manager, Naeem Gillani, who had earlier denied access to Indian reporters, allowed a question from the travelling Indian press on Thursday.

Asked about the team’s reaction to outside noise and ICC hearings for Sahibzada Farhan and Haris Rauf over provocative gestures, Hesson said: “We just focus on cricket, and that’s what we’ll keep doing. There’s always passion in high-pressure games, but my job is to ensure we concentrate on playing a good game.”

Hesson also rejected claims that Pakistan batters struggle to pick spin from the hand. “When Wanindu Hasaranga bowls, we know he’s a googly bowler. It’s not about reading it from the hand but playing it off the pitch and getting into a good position,” he explained.

He identified decision-making under pressure as the real challenge. “We’ve been a little tentative. These pitches are tough, as every team has found out after the Powerplay. It’s really difficult,” Hesson admitted.

Also Read: India Storms Into Asia Cup 2025 Final With 41-Run Win Over Bangladesh