Post by : Raman

Photo : AP

India began their Asia Cup 2025 campaign in spectacular fashion, defeating the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by nine wickets in a one-sided match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The defending champions wasted no time, dominating with both ball and bat to set the tone for the tournament.

UAE, batting first, managed a mere 57 runs before being bowled out, marking the lowest T20 total scored against India in the format. The innings began with some promise as UAE reached 47 for 2, but the Indian bowlers struck fiercely in the final overs. Kuldeep Yadav, the left-arm wrist-spinner, was the star of the bowling attack, taking four wickets for just seven runs in only 2.1 overs. His second over was particularly devastating, claiming three crucial wickets and leaving UAE reeling.

Alishan Sharafu, the UAE opener, scored 22 before being bowled by Jasprit Bumrah, while captain Muhammad Waseem contributed 19 runs before being trapped lbw by Kuldeep. Aside from these two, no other UAE batter reached double figures, highlighting India’s superior bowling and fielding performance.

Chasing a tiny target, India made short work of the UAE total. Opener Abhishek Sharma started aggressively, smashing the first ball of the innings for six and the second for four. Sharma continued his attacking display, hitting two more sixes and several boundaries to score 30 runs from just 16 balls. The Indian team completed the chase in just 4.3 overs, with Shubman Gill remaining unbeaten on 20 from nine balls and captain Suryakumar Yadav scoring seven not out from two.

This victory showcased India’s dominance and depth in both batting and bowling. Kuldeep Yadav’s exceptional spell demonstrated India’s ability to exploit weaknesses in opposition line-ups, while the powerful batting from Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill highlighted the team’s aggressive approach to T20 cricket.

Shubman Gill, playing his first match since the dramatic fifth Test against England at The Oval, looked in fine form, indicating that India’s batting lineup is well-prepared for the tournament. Captain Suryakumar Yadav’s composed finishing ensured the chase remained smooth and trouble-free.

India now turns their attention to a high-profile clash against Pakistan on Sunday. Both teams are expected to battle fiercely in Group A, which also includes Oman. Meanwhile, Group B consists of Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Hong Kong. The top two teams from each group will move on to the Super Four stage, keeping fans eagerly anticipating more thrilling cricket action.

This emphatic opening victory not only boosts India’s confidence but also sends a strong message to other teams that the defending champions are ready to retain their Asia Cup title.

India’s bowlers and batters combined perfectly to produce a dominating performance that cricket fans will remember. With key players in form and a strong team spirit, India enters the tournament as a clear favorite, poised to take on all challengers.

The Asia Cup promises exciting matches ahead, and if India continues their current form, they could be on their way to another championship.

India cricket, Asia Cup 2025, India vs UAE, Kuldeep Yadav, Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav