Hesson hoping struggling Pakistan top order shows up on big occasion in tri-series final

Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson is optimistic about his experienced top order stepping up to the plate in Saturday's ODI tri-series final against Sri Lanka at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The opening batters have been inconsistent, a significant concern as Pakistan qualified for the final with three consecutive wins but lost to Sri Lanka by eight wickets in their last league match.

Hesson credits the team's recent success to players not contributing significantly, despite key players failing to make substantial contributions. Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam, the top order stalwarts, have managed only 31 and 118 runs, respectively, in four innings, while Saim Ayub, opening alongside Fakhar, has scored just 21 runs in three innings.

Despite these struggles, Hesson remains confident that Fakhar and Babar can deliver in the final, calling it an ideal platform for them to showcase their skills. The middle order has provided important contributions, with Salman Ali Agha scoring 107 and Hasan Nawaz 79 in recent matches. Hesson highlighted Salman's batting ability and Hasan's growing pressure management skills, praising Pakistan's bowling, especially Shaheen Shah Afridi's early wicket-taking capabilities.