Pakistan Focused on Cricket, Not ICC Hearings, Ahead of Asia Cup Final Against India
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Pakistan cricket team head coach Gary Hesson has emphasized the team’s focus remains solely on the cricket as they prepare for a historic Asia cup final against India on Sunday. This comes amidst ongoing scrutiny regarding gestures made by players Sahibzada Farhan and Haris Rauf during previous matches, which are subject to review by the International Cricket Council (ICC). Pakistan secured their place in the final with a comfortable 11-run victory over Bangladesh on Thursday.
Final Showdown: A First for India and Pakistan
The upcoming final marks the first time India and Pakistan will compete for the Asia Cup championship since the tournament’s inception in 1984. Originally held exclusively in Sharjah, the Asia Cup has grown to become a major event in the cricketing calendar. Asia Cup schedule
Hesson believes his team has earned the right to compete for the trophy. “So now it’s up to us to make the most of it. And I think all the games that have happened up to this point now have been around trying to get yourself in a position to win the trophy. And that’s what we’ve been talking about the whole time,” he stated.
Addressing External Noise and ICC Hearings
Responding to a question from the travelling Indian media – a rare occurrence, as noted by Pakistan media manager Naeem Gillani – Hesson downplayed the impact of external pressures and the impending ICC hearings.
“Look, my message is we just focus on the cricket and that’s certainly what we’ll be doing. Those things, you probably know more about than me,” Hesson replied. He reiterated his role is to concentrate on the team’s performance on the field.
Regarding the gestures made by Farhan and Rauf, Hesson acknowledged the passion inherent in high-pressure games but maintained the team’s focus. “But we will be having our focus on playing a good game and focusing on the cricket, and that’s part of my job.” ESPN Report on ICC Inquiry
Key Takeaways
* Historic Final: India and Pakistan will face off in the Asia Cup final for the first time ever.
* Focused Approach: Head coach Gary Hesson is prioritizing cricket over external distractions, including ICC hearings.
* Team Confidence: Hesson believes Pakistan has earned its place in the final and is prepared to compete for the championship.
* Passion on the Field: The coach acknowledged the high emotions during intense matches but emphasized maintaining focus.
The team’s ability to compartmentalize and concentrate on their game will be crucial as they aim to lift the Asia Cup trophy on Sunday. The final promises to be a thrilling contest between two of Asia’s cricketing powerhouses.