Pakistan Aiming to Challenge India at Asian Games, Says Coach Mike Hesson

Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson has acknowledged that his squad faces a significant challenge to bridge the gap with India as they prepare for the upcoming men's cricket competition at the Asian Games in Japan. Speaking from Karachi ahead of the team's departure, Hesson identified India as the current benchmark in white-ball cricket, noting that Pakistan still has work to do to reach that level of consistency.

Since taking the helm in May last year, Hesson has overseen a period of transition, though the team has struggled in high-profile encounters against their neighbors. Pakistan suffered three defeats to India during the 2025 Asia Cup and another loss at this year's Twenty20 World Cup. Despite these results, the coach remains focused on the tactical improvements required to compete with the defending Asian Games champions.

The coach remains optimistic about his team's ability to compete if they reach the later stages of the tournament. Reflecting on past performances, Hesson pointed to the Asia Cup final in Dubai as a blueprint for how his side can disrupt India's rhythm. He stated that the team is preparing thoroughly and intends to apply similar pressure should the two sides meet in Japan.

Hesson reiterated that while the prospect of facing India is a motivating factor, the primary objective remains taking the tournament one match at a time. With India currently holding back-to-back T20 World Cup titles, the challenge for Pakistan is to maintain focus through the early rounds to ensure they are in a position to contest for a medal in the final days of the Games.