Pakistan’s Thrilling Win in T20I Tri-Series Boosts Confidence Ahead of Asia Cup
Pakistan’s cricket team kicked off their Asia Cup preparations on a high note, crushing Afghanistan by 75 runs in the T20I Tri-series final in Sharjah. Head coach Mike Hesson couldn’t hide his excitement, calling the pressure-packed victory a major confidence booster before the big tournament kicks off in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
In Sunday’s nail-biter at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Pakistan posted 141/8, and their bowlers turned the game on its head. Left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz stole the show with a stunning five-wicket haul, including a rare hat-trick. He bowled out Afghanistan for just 66 in 15.2 overs, handing Pakistan a dominant win in the T20I Tri-series final.
Nawaz didn’t just shine in the final—he earned Player of the Tournament honors for the series. The all-rounder smashed 120 runs and snagged 10 wickets overall. Interestingly, he’s the only player in Pakistan’s current squad who’s featured in both the 2016 and 2022 T20I editions of the Men’s Asia Cup, making him a key asset for the upcoming battles.
Speaking to PCB Digital on Monday, Hesson praised the team’s progress. "I’m thrilled with how the boys are shaping up," he said. "Beating Afghanistan in spin-friendly conditions that suit their attack really built our confidence. And clinching a final under pressure right before the Asia Cup? That’s huge for us."
Hesson reserved special words for Nawaz, who’s been on fire lately. "Mohammad Nawaz has been outstanding," the coach gushed. "He was Player of the Series in this tri-series and even against West Indies in the USA. Since rejoining the side, he’s grown more confident and clever in those crucial overs. He’s a massive asset with bat, ball, and in the field—covers all three departments brilliantly."
The coach also highlighted left-handed batter Fakhar Zaman’s comeback story. After recovering from injury, Zaman started slow but exploded with an unbeaten 77 in the final, proving crucial to Pakistan’s total. "Fakhar’s confidence has soared through the tri-series," Hesson noted. "He’s tweaking his game to suit different pitches—you can’t always blast at a 160 strike rate, but he adapts when it counts. His batting and fielding have been a delight to watch."
Now, all eyes are on the Asia Cup 2023, starting Tuesday. Pakistan opens against Oman in Dubai on September 12, followed by clashes with India on September 14 and UAE on September 17. The tournament features eight teams, with the top two from each group advancing to the Super Four stage for round-robin action. The top two there will battle in the final on September 28 in Dubai.
Hesson loves the expanded format. "An eight-team Asia Cup is fantastic for Asian cricket," he said. "It tests us properly, grows the game in the region, and lets us face fresh opponents. Our group with Oman, UAE, and India will be tough—we’ve done our homework, but quick adaptations are key."
Under Hesson, Pakistan has won 10 out of 14 T20Is since he took charge, showing solid form. He wrapped up by stressing focus: "Don’t let outside noise distract us. Concentrate on each match, qualify for Super Four, and stay consistent. The team that handles the pressure best will lift the trophy."
With stars like Nawaz and Zaman firing, Pakistan enters the Asia Cup as serious contenders—fans can’t wait for the action!
