“We have to put India under pressure for longer” - Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson

Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson has stated that his team would be aiming to put India under pressure for longer periods of time in the grand finale on Sunday, September 28, at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, in Dubai.

Speaking in the post-match press conference, Hesson also stated that while they were completely dominated by India in the group stage, his players had a decent game time in the Super Four clash against their arch-rivals.

"I think the way we played against India in the last match was a huge step up from the first game. The first game was a bit passive; we allowed India to control the game. The last match we had that game by the scruff of the neck for long periods, and it took an exceptional innings from Abhishek Sharma that took the game away from us,” Hesson said in the press conference.

Additionally, Hesson also noted that Team India is the No. 1-ranked side for a reason and his players would be hoping to put the opposition under constant pressure in the much-awaited grand finale.

"We have to be good enough to put India under pressure for longer because there is a reason why they are ranked the top side in the world. We have to put them under pressure, and that will be our challenge. We have deserved this opportunity, so it’s now up to us to make the most of it. We have been trying to be in a position to win the trophy," he added.

When asked about the controversial and provocative gestures from the opening batter, Sahibzada Farhan, and star pacer Haris Rauf during the Super Four clash against India, Hesson tried to stay mum and didn’t say much on the topic.

"Look, my message is that we are focused on the cricket and we certainly will be doing that. Those things, you probably know more about than I do. I deal with the cricket side. In terms of gestures, there is always some passion, isn’t there? In terms of when you are in high-pressure games, our focus will be on playing a good game. That’s a part of my job,” he concluded.

Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at Sky365 and download the Sky365 App to start betting today!