Defending champions India hit the ground running with an intensive practice session at the ICC Academy in Dubai on Friday as they wrapped up their build-up for the Asia Cup 2025. The Men in Blue will open their title defence against hosts UAE on September 10, followed by the much-anticipated clash with Pakistan on September 14 and a final group encounter against Oman on September 19. The playoffs are scheduled to begin on September 20.
It was the first full training session for the squad since the conclusion of the England Test series, which ended in a 2-2 draw last month. Captain Suryakumar Yadav, deputy Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Jitesh Sharma, Tilak Varma and Abhishek Sharma all spent considerable time honing their batting skills in the nets.
Several senior players, including Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav, enjoyed a month’s rest before rejoining the squad. Instead of holding a preparatory camp at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, the management opted for an early arrival in Dubai to adjust to the conditions.
Gill, who impressed in his leadership stint during the England Tests, was one of the most closely followed players at training. Bumrah also attracted attention as he geared up for his first T20I appearance since the 2024 World Cup final in Bridgetown, where his match-winning 2/18 against South Africa secured India’s triumph and earned him the Player-of-the-Series award. After a 40-day break, the fast bowler appeared refreshed, sharing light moments with Abhishek Sharma during practice.
Hardik Pandya, meanwhile, made headlines with his striking blonde hairstyle and delighted fans by signing autographs on the sidelines. The squad worked under the watchful eyes of head coach Gautam Gambhir, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak and bowling coach Morne Morkel.
This Asia Cup will be India’s first tournament without Dream11 as sponsor, with players training in plain jerseys. The record eight-time winners will be keen to extend their dominance in the continental competition, being hosted across venues in the UAE.
The tournament’s Group A consists of India, Pakistan, UAE and Oman, while Group B features Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Hong Kong.
India’s Asia Cup 2025 fixtures:
- September 10: vs UAE
- September 14: vs Pakistan
- September 19: vs Oman