India started their Asia Cup 2025 campaign with a dominant nine-wicket victory over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday, September 10, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav’s decision to bowl first proved spot on as the bowlers dismantled the UAE batting line-up.
UAE were bundled out for just 57 runs after being completely undone by India’s bowling attack. Star pacer Jasprit Bumrah set the tone early with a scorching yorker to dismiss opener Alishan Sharafu. From there on, the Men in Blue never looked back.
The left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav was the standout performer, claiming four wickets, including three in a single over, to rip through the middle order. All-rounder Shivam Dube also chipped in with an impressive three-wicket haul. For UAE, Sharafu’s 22 runs stood as the highest individual score, but the team as a whole struggled to cope.
Chasing a modest target, India made short work of the total, reaching 60/1 in just 4.3 overs. Abhishek Sharma played a brisk knock of 30 off 16 balls, while Shubman Gill remained unbeaten on 20*. The comprehensive win not only secured two points for India but also gave them an unimaginable net run rate (NRR) of 10.48 to kick off their campaign.
Who Said What?
Kuldeep Yadav, Player of the Match
(on his fitness) Thanks to Adrian the trainer. Was working on my bowling and my fitness as well, everything is going perfectly. Tried to hit the right length and it matters a lot, reading the batters on what they are trying to do. Even today as well, reacting to what the batters would do on the next ball.
Muhammad Waseem, UAE (Losing Captain)
We started well as a batting team, we lose wickets in a cluster which cost us the game. They are a brilliant team and they are bowling very well. They are executing their plans for every batter, that’s why they are the No.1 team. As a team we will try to come back stronger and learn from our mistakes.
Suryakumar Yadav, India (Winning Captain)
Wanted to see how the wicket was playing. It was the same in the 2nd innings. Clinical performance from the boys, we wanted good attitude and energy on the field and that’s what we got. Recently lot of the boys were here for the Champions Trophy, the wicket looked good but it was on the slower side and the spinners have a role. Here it is very hot right now and Kuldeep, Dube and Varun did well. (on Abhishek) He is currently the World number one batter for a reason, he sets the tone, irrespective of if we chase 200 or 50, unbelievable from him. Everyone is excited for the game against Pakistan.
India
