How Can Pakistan Defeat India In Asian Games? Mike Hesson Responds

The Asian Games 2026 men's cricket competition is about to begin with some of the top teams in the continent fighting for the elusive gold medal. India are the favorites but other sides like Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka cannot be underestimated.

Pakistan are coming into the competition with expectations from their fans. However, their recent form hasn't been the best and adding to it, they are coming here with a young team. When asked about his team's chances, Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson didn't rule out the chances of making it all the way.

Mike Hesson Comments on IND vs PAK in Asian Games

While speaking to the reporters on Pakistan's departure for the Asian Games in Japan, Mike Hesson labelled India as the "benchmark in white-ball cricket" and felt that his side needs to reach that level.

Hesson also gave a glimpse about Pakistan cricket team plans on India for Asian Games. He spoke about his team's preparation and feels that the Men in Green can put India under pressure just like the Asia Cup final in 2025.

The 2025 Asia Cup final between India and Pakistan went on to be a thrilling contest with the Men in Blue emerging victorious in the last over of the game. Over the last few years, Pakistan have struggled to beat India, who have emerged to become the best T20 team in the world.

Second-String Team For Pakistan

Pakistan are going in with a second-string side for the Asian Games with Sahibzada Farhan as the captain and Abdul Samad as his deputy. Some of the top players have been left out of the squad as the selectors trusted a bunch of young players.

It will be a tough ask for Pakistan as they face some of the best cricket teams in the world. Sahibzada Farhan and his men will begin their campaign on September 28 against a qualifying team.