Hammad Aziz
Dubai: The Pakistan cricket team has declared itself fully prepared to tackle new challenges in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, with both captain Salman Ali Agha and head coach Mike Hesson confident about the squad’s progress and balance.
Speaking at a press conference in Dubai, Hesson brushed aside concerns over Pakistan’s batting line-up, recalling that the team recently defeated “one of the best spin attacks in the world by 70 runs.” He said the batting unit, though relatively new, is steadily improving, and several players are capable of match-winning performances.
On the bowling front, Hesson highlighted Pakistan’s flexibility with five quality spinners — Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed, Sufiyan Muqeem, Salman Ali Agha, and Saim Ayub — alongside five fast bowlers, giving the team multiple options depending on conditions.
Commenting on arch-rivals India, Hesson acknowledged their strong batting depth but maintained Pakistan is improving daily and ready for the challenge. He noted differences between the Dubai and Sharjah pitches, stressing that adaptability would be key.
Pakistan’s T20 captain Salman Ali Agha, speaking at a joint captains’ press conference following the trophy unveiling by ACC President Mohsin Naqvi, said that in T20 cricket, “no team can be called a favorite, since the game can change completely within just one or two overs.”
Salman pointed to Pakistan’s positive recent form, winning three of their last four series, but admitted the Asia Cup will be a tough contest. He added that while playing in the UAE is not necessarily an advantage, familiarity with the conditions from PSL and international matches could benefit the team.
Meanwhile, India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav downplayed talk of favoritism, saying: “In T20 cricket, every team is equal. Even the smallest team can surprise with their performance. Who told you India are the favorites?”
