The countdown to the Asia Cup 2025 has officially begun, and Team India wasted no time kicking off their preparations with a high-intensity training session at the ICC Academy in Dubai. With Suryakumar Yadav returning as captain and Shubman Gill named vice-captain, the squad looks determined to make a statement in the eight-team tournament starting September 9.
First Glimpse from Dubai
The image above captures the energy and focus of India’s first nets session in Dubai. Jasprit Bumrah, Shubman Gill, and Suryakumar Yadav were seen leading drills under the watchful eyes of head coach Gautam Gambhir and bowling coach Morne Morkel.
Key Highlights from India’s Training Camp
- Suryakumar Yadav returns post-hernia surgery to lead India.
- Shubman Gill appointed vice-captain, set to open with Abhishek Sharma.
- Jasprit Bumrah makes a crucial comeback as pace spearhead.
- Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma battle for the No.3 spot.
- Hardik Pandya excluded from leadership group.
- Axar Patel fights for a place after losing vice-captaincy.
- Rinku Singh vs Shivam Dube for finisher’s role.
- Kuldeep Yadav vs Varun Chakaravarthy for lone spinner slot.
- Jitesh Sharma eyes middle-order role after stellar IPL 2025.
Suryakumar Yadav: Captain with a Point to Prove
After a long recovery from hernia surgery, Suryakumar Yadav (SKY) is back to lead India in a major ICC event. His leadership will be tested on multiple fronts:
- Fitness: Can he endure the rigors of back-to-back T20 matches?
- Form: Will his IPL brilliance translate to international success?
- Strategy: Can he manage a squad full of rising stars and veterans?
This Asia Cup is SKY’s opportunity to cement his place as a long-term T20I captain.
Shubman Gill: Vice-Captain and Opening Anchor
The decision to name Shubman Gill as vice-captain raised eyebrows, especially with his recent success in Test cricket. But selectors are banking on his temperament and technique to stabilize the top order.
- Will open with Abhishek Sharma, forming a left-right combo.
- Expected to anchor innings while Abhishek attacks in the powerplay.
- Faces scrutiny from critics who question his T20 credentials.
Jasprit Bumrah’s Return: India’s X-Factor Under Lights
Dubai’s night matches are tailor-made for fast bowlers, and Jasprit Bumrah is back to exploit those conditions. After missing key Tests against England, Bumrah is eager to prove his fitness and form.
- Known for deadly yorkers and calm under pressure.
- Will lead India’s pace attack alongside Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana.
- Could be the difference-maker in crunch games against Pakistan and UAE.
Sanju Samson’s Selection Puzzle
With Gill and Abhishek locked in as openers, Sanju Samson finds himself in a tricky spot. His explosive batting in the Kerala Cricket League makes him a strong contender, but competition is fierce.
- May compete with Tilak Varma for the No.3 slot.
- Needs clarity on role — opener, middle-order, or finisher?
- Could be underutilized if not given a defined position.
Hardik Pandya: Make-or-Break Tournament
Once touted as India’s next T20I captain, Hardik Pandya now finds himself out of the leadership group. His performance in the Asia Cup will determine his future in the squad.
- Must prove fitness and consistency.
- Still a match-winner with bat and ball.
- Needs to adapt to a non-leadership role and contribute as a senior pro.
Middle-Order Battles to Watch
Rinku Singh vs Shivam Dube
- Rinku Singh: Known for finishing games, strong showing in UP T20 League.
- Shivam Dube: Brings power-hitting and medium pace — a dual threat.
Jitesh Sharma vs Sanju Samson - Jitesh Sharma: Breakout IPL 2025 season with RCB, aggressive middle-order option.
- Samson: More experience, but needs a clear role to thrive.
Spin Dilemma: Kuldeep vs Varun
With seamers expected to dominate, India may opt for just one spinner. The choice is between:
- Kuldeep Yadav: Proven wicket-taker, especially in middle overs.
- Varun Chakaravarthy: Mystery spinner, ideal for UAE conditions.
Management may lean toward Varun’s unpredictability, especially in low-scoring games.
Abhishek Sharma: India’s Powerplay Weapon
Abhishek Sharma has earned his spot as opener and is expected to go hard from ball one. His fearless approach could set the tone for India’s innings.
- Left-hander with explosive strokeplay.
- Can dismantle spin and pace alike.
- Partnership with Gill could become India’s most lethal T20 combo.
India’s Asia Cup 2025 Schedule
- September 10: vs UAE
- September 14: vs Pakistan
- September 19: vs Oman
- September 20 onward: Super Fours
- September 28: Final at Dubai International Stadium
Final Thoughts
India’s first training session in Dubai has set the tone for what promises to be a thrilling Asia Cup 2025. With leadership shifts, comeback narratives, and fierce selection battles, fans are in for a rollercoaster ride.
🔑 India’s success hinges on:
- Suryakumar’s fitness and tactical acumen.
- Gill-Abhishek’s synergy at the top.
- Bumrah’s brilliance under lights.
- Smart middle-order selections between Samson, Tilak, and Jitesh.
Stay tuned for match previews, player analysis, and post-game breakdowns as the tournament unfolds.
Mitchell Starc bids farewell to T20Is to deliver with full force in Tests and the 2027 ODI World Cup. Discover how Australia’s pace legend plans to dominate the future of red-ball and 50-over cricket:
https://krsyara.com/mitchell-starc-retires-from-t20is-to-focus-on-tests-and-2027-odi-world-cup/