Coach Hesson: Tri-Series Triumph Fuels Pakistan’s Confidence for 2025 Asia Cup

Pakistan’s head coach, Mike Hesson, expressed that the team’s recent triumph in a tri-series against Afghanistan and the United Arab Emirates has boosted their confidence ahead of the Asia Cup, which begins in Abu Dhabi this Tuesday.

In the series finale held on Sunday in Sharjah, Pakistan secured a 75-run victory over Afghanistan on a challenging pitch, with Mohammad Nawaz achieving a hat-trick as part of his best-ever five-wicket performance.

Hesson, who has been at the helm as the white-ball coach since May, remarked, “Defeating Afghanistan in conditions favoring their spin attack was a significant confidence booster. This success is crucial as we approach the Asia Cup.”

Under Hesson’s leadership, Pakistan has had a mixed record, sweeping Bangladesh 3-0 at home but later losing 2-1 in the away series. They also won 2-1 against the West Indies in Florida and suffered only one defeat to Afghanistan in five tri-series matches.

“The eight-team format of the Asia Cup is excellent for Asian cricket. It not only tests us thoroughly but also promotes the game in the region and gives us a chance to compete against teams we rarely face,” Hesson added.

The 17th edition of the Asia Cup begins with a Group B match between Afghanistan and Hong Kong in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. India will commence its campaign against the UAE in Dubai on Wednesday, leading up to a highly anticipated match against Pakistan at the same venue on Sunday.

“Our group, featuring Oman, UAE, and India, is quite challenging, and we must adapt swiftly. It’s crucial to remain focused and not be swayed by external pressures,” said Hesson, who guided New Zealand to the ODI World Cup final in 2015.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the Super Four stage, culminating in the final on September 28 in Dubai.

Published on September 8, 2025.