Afridi, Yousaf Hail Hasan Nawaz After Playing a Fighting Knock Against India in Asian Games Final

Hasan Nawaz’s fighting effort against India in the 2026 Asian Games final has earned praise from former Pakistan stars Shahid Afridi and Mohammad Yousuf. Nawaz scored 96 at Korogi Sports Park on Saturday, keeping Pakistan in the contest during the high-pressure match.

Nawaz had been out of Pakistan’s T20I setup since November last year before returning for the Asian Games semi-final against Bangladesh. He then stepped up in the final against India, scoring 96 and keeping Pakistan in the game during a difficult chase. The innings also gave him the record for the highest individual T20I score by a Pakistani batter against India.

In a tough second-innings chase against India, Nawaz came in at No.4 and quickly took the attack to the Indian bowlers. The 24-year-old hit seven sixes, which is the joint-most by a Pakistani batter in a T20I innings, along with five fours.

His innings kept Pakistan’s hopes alive, but he did not get enough support from the other end. The situation became tougher after Saim Ayub was dismissed in the 15th over.

Nawaz was finally dismissed on the last ball of the innings, falling just short of a century that would have been his second in T20 cricket.

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi took to social media to applaud the gritty knock of Hasan Nawaz. He said the young Pakistan star played well under pressure, however, India’s collective efforts helped them seal the match convincingly.

"What a knock by Hassan Nawaz! That was absolute quality, a gold medal-worthy innings in every sense," said Shahid Afridi.

"At the end of the day, India just played better overall cricket and earned the win. Heads up boys, loved the fight!" added Shahid Afridi.

Mohammad Yousuf also praised Nawaz’s performance, calling his knock against India strong under tough moments. He also appreciated the batter for continuing from where he had left off in his previous international appearances.

"[Hassan Nawaz] delivered a strong performance, picking up right where he left off in international cricket, Pakistan finding bits and pieces to make it count," said Mohammad Yousuf.