Jonathan Trott, the head coach of the Afghanistan men’s cricket team, lauded the Indian team, describing them as one of the favourites in the present Asia Cup. India started their Asia Cup 2025 campaign on a high note, winning both group stage matches against the UAE and Pakistan.
The Indian team won convincingly, defeating the UAE by nine wickets and Pakistan by seven wickets, while batting second in both matches.
Trott also praised Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav, stating that the captaincy has introduced a new level of responsibility to his position.
“Every team that India puts out nowadays always has a very good side. Asia Cup in these conditions, we saw them in the Champions Trophy here 50 over. It would be foolish not to say they are one of the favourites. I think Suryakumar Yadav is a fantastic player, as he’s captain now. So it’s an extra added responsibility, so I look forward to seeing how he goes with that leadership role,” Trott was quoted as saying by Tribune India.
Meanwhile, star Afghanistan all-rounder Gulbadin Naib also heaped massive praise on the Indian team, calling them the best side in Asia as well as the world. Having shared the dressing room with Indian players during the Indian Premier League (IPL), Naib admitted that he has always enjoyed learning from them.
“India is the best team in Asia and in the world, you get to learn a lot from these boys,” said Naib.
Bangladesh secured a thrilling eight-run victory over Afghanistan in their Asia Cup clash at Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, thanks to excellent bowling spells from Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman. With this win, the Litton Das-led side retained its second spot in the group, boasting two wins, one loss, and four points. They will be eagerly watching the match between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, as it decides their fate in the tournament.
Sri Lanka leads the group with two wins from as many matches. Afghanistan, with one win and one loss, remains in third place. If Afghanistan defeats Sri Lanka in the final Group B clash, all three teams would have two wins each, bringing Net Run Rate (NRR) into play to decide the standings.
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