Hesson Credits Afghanistan Victory for Boosting Pakistan’s Morale

Pakistan’s men’s cricket team head coach, Mike Hesson, stated on Monday that the T20I tri-series triumph against Afghanistan in spin-assisting conditions has elevated the team’s ‘confidence’ as they approach the ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to begin on September 9.

The Green Shirts successfully defended a score of 141 runs in the tri-series final held in Sharjah. They bowled out Afghanistan for a mere 66 runs, largely due to Mohammad Nawaz’s impressive five-wicket performance, which included a hat-trick.

Nawaz received valuable support from fellow spin bowlers Abrar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem, both securing two wickets. Their combined efforts enabled Pakistan to surpass Afghanistan in conditions that typically favor Afghanistan’s strengths.

Hesson voiced his satisfaction with the team’s ongoing development, asserting that the victory over Afghanistan in their preferred conditions significantly bolstered the team’s confidence prior to the continental tournament.

“I am happy with the team’s current trajectory. Defeating Afghanistan in conditions conducive to their spin attack was a significant morale boost. Securing a final victory under pressure before the Asia Cup was also crucial for our preparation,” Hesson stated, according to a release by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

The head coach specifically commended Fakhar Zaman for his pivotal role in the team’s success, noting that the top-order batsman has gained confidence following his return from an injury.

He emphasized the importance of Zaman’s unbeaten 77-run innings against the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the host nation. Hesson also addressed criticisms regarding Zaman’s strike rate, highlighting the left-handed batsman’s ability to adapt to varying match conditions.

“Fakhar Zaman has demonstrated increasing confidence throughout the tri-series since recovering from his injury. Although he started cautiously, his unbeaten 77 runs were essential,” Hesson remarked.

“He is adjusting his approach based on the conditions; a strike rate of 160 is not always feasible, but he can adapt when necessary. His contributions, both with the bat and in the field, have been commendable,” he added.

The Pakistan coach then praised Nawaz, the Player of the Series, for his consistent performances since rejoining the national team, describing him as a ‘significant asset’ across all facets of the game.

“Mohammad Nawaz has been exceptional. He earned the title of Player of the Series in both the tri-series and the matches against the West Indies in the USA,” Hesson noted.

“Since his return to the team, he has become more assured and strategically astute in his bowling during critical moments. He is a valuable asset across all departments,” he added.

Mike Hesson characterized Pakistan’s group in the Asia Cup 2025, which includes India, host nation UAE, and Oman, as challenging. However, he emphasized that the team that effectively manages these ‘challenges’ will ultimately prevail.

“An eight-team Asia Cup is beneficial for Asian cricket. It offers a genuine test, expands the sport within the region, and provides opportunities to assess players we rarely encounter. Our group, consisting of Oman, UAE, and India, is demanding. We have conducted our scouting, but quick adaptation will be necessary.

“The key is to remain focused on each match, secure qualification for the Super Four, and then maintain consistent performance to advance further. The team that effectively addresses these challenges will emerge as the tournament champion.”

Pakistan, under the leadership of Salman Ali Agha, is scheduled to commence its Asia Cup 2025 campaign against Oman on September 12 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai.