With the much-anticipated Pakistan-India clash in the Asia Cup Super Four tomorrow (Sunday), the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has brought in a sports psychologist and motivational speaker to support the team.
The move aims to help players manage the immense pressure and expectations that come with one of cricket’s most high-voltage encounters.
Managing mental stress
According to team sources, Dr. Raheel has been tasked with guiding players on how to relieve mental stress and maintain composure during the match. His sessions will focus on helping cricketers stay mentally strong, focused, and positive, especially when facing intense pressure on the field.
Also Read: Asia Cup 2025: India decimate Pakistan by 7 wickets
Helping players cope with pressure
The Pakistan-India rivalry is often regarded as one of the most emotionally charged contests in world cricket. To ensure players remain in the best mental shape, Dr. Raheel will advise them on handling anxiety, rotating focus away from external noise, and channeling pressure into performance.
Separately, ahead of the high-voltage Pakistan-India Super Four clash, the national cricket team held an important meeting where players openly admitted their shortcomings from the previous match.
Batters admit mistakes in previous game
According to team sources, Pakistan’s batters accepted responsibility for their failure in the earlier match. They acknowledged the need to rotate the strike more effectively and avoid building pressure in tough conditions.
Also Read: ICC match referee Andy Pycroft apologises to Pakistan team officials
Each player was given the chance to express his views during the meeting, making the session a platform for honest self-assessment.
Bowlers highlight tough playing conditions
While the batters admitted their shortcomings, the bowlers shared their own observations about the pitch and conditions. They emphasized that batting conditions had been difficult, which added to the challenges faced by the team.
Also Read: Asia Cup: Pakistan admit batting failures ahead of clash with India
Coach expresses confidence
Head coach Mike Hesson expressed complete confidence in the players and urged them to stay focused ahead of the high-pressure game against India. Sources confirm that he reassured the team of his support and trust, highlighting that strong performances can help Pakistan bounce back in the tournament.
Also Read: Asia Cup: Suryakumar Yadav confident of victory ahead of Pakistan clash
Meanwhile, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav has expressed confidence in his team’s preparations ahead of the much-anticipated Pakistan-India clash. Speaking at a pre-match press conference in Dubai on Saturday, Yadav said the squad was focused on performing well and entertaining fans.
Team prep, focus
Yadav highlighted that India has played three good matches in the tournament so far and the players are determined to carry that momentum forward. “I think our preparation for the tournament is very good. Our focus is on what we can do well, and we will try to win the match,” he said.
