‘Pakistan are the best side in Asia Cup’: Wahab Riaz backs team despite record loss to India

Dubai, September 6, 2026: Pakistan mentor Wahab Riaz has backed his team to win the Women’s Asia Cup despite suffering a record defeat against India in their Group A clash in Dubai on Saturday.

Pakistan endured a disastrous batting performance after being bowled out for just 55 in 18.1 overs, their lowest total in recorded T20I history. India chased down the target comfortably, winning by seven wickets inside nine overs to maintain their unbeaten run and secure a place in the semi-finals.

Despite the heavy defeat, Riaz remains confident about Pakistan’s chances in the tournament.

«“I believe that all the players in our team are very skilful, and they just need to trust themselves. We won’t commit the same mistakes. I still believe Pakistan is the best side in this Asia Cup to lift the trophy because the conditions really suit us,” Riaz told reporters after the match.»

Riaz backs team overhaul

Pakistan have undergone significant changes following their disappointing campaign at the T20 World Cup earlier this year, with seven players reportedly being replaced.

Former Pakistan captain Sana Mir had criticised the team management for making such a major overhaul. Riaz, however, defended the decision and said the changes were made with the future in mind.

“We have made changes with the future in mind. The players who were playing before had played a lot of World Cups and Asia Cups, but we weren’t getting the results. So it was time to go with new faces and bring new girls into the mix,” Riaz said.

He added that the decision was based on performances rather than individual reputations.

“The girls who were left out weren’t performing at all. I think we made the right move by bringing new girls into the mix,” he said.

Pakistan face qualification pressure

Despite Riaz's confidence, Pakistan are now under pressure to secure a place in the semi-finals.

Pakistan have two points from two matches and are level with Thailand. Their final league-stage match against Hong Kong will be crucial, with Pakistan needing to avoid defeat to keep their qualification hopes alive.

After their collapse against India, Pakistan will now have to regroup quickly and address their batting problems before their final group match.

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