The Asia Cup 2025 is set for a historic finale as arch-rivals India and Pakistan face off in the tournament’s first-ever final clash in its 41-year history. Despite suffering two defeats at the hands of India earlier in the group and Super Four stages, Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson believes that those games are now in the past — and the only match that truly matters is the final.
Hesson: “We’ve Deserved This Opportunity”
Speaking to The Times of India, the former New Zealand and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) coach emphasized that Pakistan’s journey through the tournament has been about building towards this moment.
“We’ve deserved this opportunity, so now it’s up to us to make the most of it. All the games up to this point have been about getting ourselves in a position to win the trophy. The only match that really counts is the one at the end,” Hesson stated.
He praised his team’s resilience and form leading up to the final, especially referencing Pakistan’s stunning comeback against Bangladesh when they were reeling at 49/5.
“When everyone writes you off 10 overs into the match, and you come back to win, that builds a bit of confidence in the group.”
Pakistan’s Plan for the Final: “Put India Under Pressure”
When asked about what went wrong in the two earlier matches against India, Hesson offered a candid analysis.
“The first game, we were passive and allowed India to control it. In the last match, we had the game by the scruff of the neck.”
The Kiwi tactician also shared a key part of Pakistan’s strategy for the final: applying consistent pressure.
“We have to be good enough to put India under pressure for long enough.”
And while emotions will naturally run high in such a high-stakes, high-rivalry match, Hesson is urging his players to keep their cool.
“Block out a bit of passion in high-pressure games, but our focus will be on playing a good game.”
As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates this epic showdown, fans from both nations — and beyond — are waiting to see who will take home the Asia Cup 2025 trophy. Will India complete a clean sweep over Pakistan, or will Hesson’s men rise when it matters most?
