Coach Mike Hesson has urged his Pakistan team to stay “focused on the task” during Sunday’s intense Asia Cup showdown against their fierce rivals, India.
This Dubai match marks the first cricket encounter between the neighbors since a brief but intense border conflict in May, setting the stage for heightened emotions.
New Zealand’s Hesson commented on Thursday: “From my standpoint, whether it’s a world event final or any other match, it’s crucial to keep everyone focused on the task at hand, and this weekend will be no exception.”
The eight-nation Twenty20 tournament kicked off on Tuesday, with Afghanistan defeating Hong Kong by 94 runs, while India trounced UAE by nine wickets on Wednesday.
Pakistan will start their campaign against Oman on Friday, yet all eyes are already on their clash with world champions India two days later.
“We know India is rightly confident given their recent performances,” Hesson remarked about the Asia Cup holders, who bowled out UAE for just 57 runs in 13.1 overs.
India secured victory in only 4.3 overs.
Since winning the World Cup last year, they’ve triumphed in 18 of their 21 T20Is.
Hesson is thrilled to be part of this blockbuster event, which will draw a packed stadium in Dubai and millions of TV viewers worldwide.
“I’ve watched many games from afar, so being part of such a charged event is truly exciting,” he added.
Pakistan enters the Asia Cup with confidence following a tri-series win in the UAE, which also included Afghanistan and UAE.
“We’re focused on daily team improvement and not getting ahead of ourselves,” Hesson stated.
India, Pakistan, Oman, and UAE make up Group A, while Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Hong Kong, and Bangladesh form Group B.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the Super Four stage, with the top teams competing in the September 28 final in Dubai.
