Farhan targets Asian Games gold as Pakistan prepare for Japan

KARACHI: Pakistan’s Asian Games cricket campaign is gathering pace, with captain Sahibzada Farhan setting his sights firmly on gold as the national side steps up preparations for the tournament in Japan.

Farhan said on Thursday that Pakistan have a balanced squad capable of competing strongly at the continental event, but stressed that the team’s attention would remain on the entire campaign rather than one high-profile fixture.

“We will try our best to claim gold for Pakistan,” Farhan told reporters at the National Stadium.

Pakistan have spent the past four days training in Karachi, with preparations tailored specifically to the conditions expected in Japan. According to Farhan, the team requested pitches that could replicate the anticipated playing environment and placed particular emphasis on facing spin bowling.

“As a captain I am happy that all boys are working hard,” he said, adding that Haider Ali, Abdul Samad and the rest of the squad were looking in good shape.

The team is scheduled to reach Japan two days before the start of its campaign. Farhan believes the early arrival will give the players valuable time to adjust to the weather and unfamiliar conditions.

Rather than allowing the possibility of a match against India to dominate the build-up, Farhan said Pakistan would treat every opponent with equal importance.

“Our focus will be on each match rather than only the game against India,” he said.

The captain also highlighted several emerging players who could use the Asian Games as a platform to strengthen their claims for future international opportunities. He specifically mentioned Saim Ayub, Maaz Sadaqat and Hasan Nawaz, describing the young players as a “ray of hope” for Pakistan.

Farhan also revealed that head coach Mike Hesson had travelled to Japan to inspect the rugby ground where the cricket matches are scheduled to take place. Hesson discussed the venue and playing conditions with members of the coaching staff and players, allowing the team to incorporate that information into its Karachi preparations.

For Farhan, the tournament is also an opportunity to establish himself as a leader while contributing with his own performances. He said his priority remained consistency, regardless of how long he holds the captaincy.

“I will try to live up to the PCB’s trust,” Farhan said.

The skipper also stressed the importance of domestic cricket, urging players who struggle at international level to return to domestic competition and rebuild their form and confidence.

With preparations now focused on Japan, Farhan and his young squad will hope their hard work, spin-focused training and familiarity with the expected conditions can translate into a strong Asian Games campaign—and ultimately a gold medal for Pakistan.