With the Asia Cup 2025 just around the corner, Team India has hit the ground running in Dubai, and head coach Gautam Gambhir is making sure his players are not just physically ready but also mentally focused.
India’s campaign begins on September 10 against hosts UAE, followed by clashes with arch-rivals Pakistan on September 14 and Oman on September 19. Ahead of the tournament, Gambhir’s message to the squad has been loud and clear: whenever you play for the country, you have an opportunity to do something new.
“All-rounder Shivam Dube revealed that Gambhir told every player to take the challenge head-on and make the most of their chance whenever they step on the field for India,” said Dube. “There is always one thing the coach has said to every player — whenever you play for the country, you have the opportunity to do something new.”
The Indian squad, placed in Group A alongside UAE, Pakistan, and Oman, has been training intensely. Vice-captain Shubman Gill expressed his excitement about being back in the T20I fold after missing international matches since July 2024. “Very excited. I think it’s a great group. The way we have been playing in T20s has been nothing short of entertaining cricket. Very happy to join the group,” Gill said in a video posted by the BCCI.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav and Gill have been seen working hard in the nets, with young talents like Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, and Jitesh Sharma also putting in hours of practice. Star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, returning to T20Is after the World Cup triumph over South Africa last year, praised the youthful energy in the squad. “It feels very good. I have joined the T20I team after a long time. This team has some young people and a lot of energy. Exciting times ahead,” he said.
The training session included rigorous drills — from shuttle runs and high knees to specialized net sessions where batters and bowlers engaged in competitive one-on-one practice. Bumrah and Gill were particularly involved in a cat-and-mouse contest, pushing each other to perform at their best.
Gambhir’s emphasis on seizing opportunities and pushing boundaries underlines India’s proactive approach to the Asia Cup. His philosophy is clear: while skill and preparation are crucial, innovation and intent on the field can often make the difference in T20 cricket.
As India heads into its first match against the UAE, all eyes will be on how the squad translates Gambhir’s advice into action. With a blend of experienced campaigners and young talents, the Men in Blue are determined to defend their Asia Cup title and keep fans entertained with dynamic, high-intensity cricket.
