Dubai’s ICC Academy turned into a hub of high-intensity cricket on Friday as defending champions India kicked off their preparations for the Asia Cup 2025. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav was all praise for his teammates, highlighting their commitment and energy levels as they put in the hard yards ahead of their title defence.
India will open their campaign against hosts UAE on September 10, before the much-anticipated clash against Pakistan on September 14, followed by a Group A fixture against Oman on September 19. The playoffs are scheduled to begin on September 20.
“Boys put body on the line” – Suryakumar
Suryakumar, returning to action after undergoing surgery for a sports hernia, was visibly delighted with the way his side went about their first day of training.
“To have such a brilliant bunch around with unbelievable skill sets, I always have a smile on my face when I see those boys on the ground,” the skipper said in a video released by the BCCI.
“Because the way they put their body on the line, that’s what I want from them. And they just enjoy on the ground.”
The opening session saw a mix of intense fitness drills and extended net practice, with batters like Sanju Samson, Jitesh Sharma, Tilak Varma, and Abhishek Sharma all spending valuable time in the middle.
Gill echoes the captain’s words
Vice-captain Shubman Gill, fresh from captaining India in the England Test series, echoed Suryakumar’s sentiment.
“Very excited obviously. I think it’s a great group. And the way we have been playing in the T20s is nothing short of entertaining and terrific cricket. So, very excited to join the group,” Gill said.
The 25-year-old opener drew plenty of attention during nets, working extensively on his stroke play and fielding drills.
Bumrah, Hardik upbeat after much-needed break
Among the senior players, Jasprit Bumrah looked in good rhythm as he returned to the T20I fold for the first time since the 2024 World Cup final in Bridgetown.
“It feels really good to join the T20 group after a long time. This three-week window was really good, got some time at home. Young energy, young people in our team, so yeah, looking forward to it,” Bumrah said.
All-rounder Hardik Pandya, sporting a fresh blonde hairdo, revealed he had made the most of his break.
“This time I really took some time out for my son, spent a lot of time with him. At the same time, I thought I will start my sports training earlier. This feels like a good bunch of people around and exciting talent,” he said.
Fresh energy from the younger lot
Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh pointed out the lively mood in the squad.
“It is a vibrant environment. Laughter and banter going around and it’s day one so we will get into it. By the time we play the first match, we will have full intensity,” he said.
Meanwhile, all-rounder Shivam Dube revealed head coach Gautam Gambhir’s motivational words had already set the tone.
“There is always one thing which the coach has said to every player – whenever you play for your country, you get an opportunity to do something new. Usme achcha utilise kiya hai, training kiya hai, better cricketer banne ka try kiya,” Dube said.
Eyes on ninth title
India are the most successful team in Asia Cup history with eight titles. As designated hosts of the 2025 edition, they enter the tournament as favourites once again.
Group A features India, Pakistan, UAE, and Oman, while Group B has Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong. With a balanced mix of youth and experience, India’s camp in Dubai has already set the stage for what promises to be an exciting campaign.
