Still hurt by Asian Games final loss to India: Pakistan fires Hasan Nawaz

Pakistan batsman Hasan Nawaz admitted the disappointment of losing the Asian Games gold medal match to India is still fresh and said his team paid the price for making “small mistakes” in the final in Japan.

India beat Pakistan by 19 runs to win the gold medal in men’s cricket last week, despite Nawaz struggling for 96 points in the title clash.

“I am still disappointed and hurt that I could not win the final. We made small mistakes and we paid the price,” Nawaz told the media.

Nawaz said he was happy with his contribution but frustrated with the result, especially as he believed Pakistan had a chance to beat India.

“I am happy with my runs but losing in the final was disappointing because I really believed we could win the match. I played according to the calculation and I knew they were one bowler short at the end with only one over left from Bumrah. But I think we made some mistakes in the run and lost,” he said.

The batsman acknowledged the challenge of facing India, who he described as the No.1 side, but felt Pakistan had done enough to put themselves in a position to win the match.

Nawaz was also pleased with how he returned to international action after being sidelined for most of last year. His 96 against India gave him a strong start after his absence.

“To make a comeback with a good innings against India was very satisfying for me personally.

Nawaz said Pakistan’s players always tried to give their best against India, but added that the team must learn from their mistakes if they want to beat them.

“I think the final is over now and the cricket and the matches will continue. We will also continue to make mistakes but I think to beat them we have to learn from our mistakes and be better.”

The youngster, who made his international debut with a T20I century against New Zealand in 2024, said playing cricket at a lower level helped him improve his game.

“I think the bowlers and the pitches you get in these matches will help you become a better player in difficult conditions. When you bat in better conditions in international cricket, it will help your confidence.”

Nawaz is now looking forward to Pakistan’s home white-ball series against Sri Lanka and England. He said he doesn’t like to think too far ahead and wants to continue the form he showed in Japan.

“You have a plan and you stick to it. There are always ups and downs,” he added.

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