Hesson: Pakistan have earned their shot at Asia Cup glory

Head coach Mike Hesson threw his support behind Pakistan before the Asia Cup 2025 final against India, insisting the side has earned the right to compete for the trophy despite setbacks along the way. He said the focus must remain firmly on cricket even as scrutiny around an ongoing ICC process continues in the background. Hesson pointed to the Super Four victory over Bangladesh—secured after a top-order collapse left Pakistan 33 for four—as proof of the team’s grit. Lower-order runs, tighter decision-making on a tough surface and a clinical bowling performance, he said, underlined the group’s capacity to absorb pressure and close out tight games. Dismissing talk of a mental block against India, Hesson argued Pakistan controlled long passages in the previous meeting and now need to maintain pressure for longer. He framed the final as a test of adaptability and execution rather than aesthetics, urging players to keep emotions in check and deliver on the biggest stage.