Pakistan’s promising middle-order batter Hasan Nawaz has his eyes set on the much-anticipated clash against India in the Asia Cup 2025, calling it a “challenge” he is eager to embrace.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the tournament, the 23-year-old reflected on the pressure of Pakistan’s campaign and the hype around facing their arch-rivals.
“Yes, it will be a challenge,” Hasan admitted. “There is pressure in every match, but we try to enjoy the game and take each contest as a challenge. India-Pakistan matches are always exciting, and I am looking forward to them. Our preparations are complete.”
Hasan underlined the importance of adapting to UAE conditions and staying calm at the crease, rather than chasing big hits from the start.
“The conditions in the UAE are not such that you can just walk in and hit every ball. You need to assess the game and carry it through,” he explained. “The way I’ve been playing is not about trying to hit a six on every ball—that’s not the intent. It’s about how you take the entire match forward, and that’s what a match-winning innings is.”
The youngster also credited head coach Mike Hesson and the support staff for his growth in international cricket.
“I have learned a lot from Mike Hesson; he has been working closely with us, and I continue to gain valuable insights from him and the other coaches,” Hasan added.
Hasan burst onto the international scene earlier this year, making his debut against New Zealand in Christchurch on March 16. In just his third T20I appearance, he lit up the stage with a breathtaking unbeaten 105 off 45 balls in a 205-run chase, instantly marking himself as one to watch.
With the Asia Cup fast approaching, Pakistan will open their campaign against Oman on September 12 before the marquee clash against India on September 14. The tournament runs from September 9 to 28 across Dubai International Stadium and Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Stadium.
