India’s Asia Cup 2025 campaign is up and running, and the buzz around team selection has already begun. On Friday evening, the Suryakumar Yadav-led side trained under the sweltering Dubai sun at the ICC Academy Oval, where the mercury touched 38°C. The four-hour session, stretching from 5 pm to 9 pm, gave a glimpse not just of India’s intensity but also of potential clues to the final XI.
Gill vs Bumrah – The Duel Fans Love to See
Vice-captain Shubman Gill walked out against Jasprit Bumrah, and what followed was nothing short of a box-office battle. Bumrah steamed in full tilt, initially troubling Gill and even drawing cheeky banter about “stiff legs.” But Gill, never one to back down, adjusted quickly and cracked a few authoritative shots through the covers. Both looked sharp, both looked ready — and fans could only imagine what such duels would mean once the tournament begins.
Jitesh Edging Ahead of Samson?
The wicketkeeper slot has been one of India’s biggest talking points, and Friday’s training added more fuel to the debate. According to reports, Jitesh Sharma was the first to take strike in the nets and also donned the gloves for keeping drills. Sanju Samson, meanwhile, was spotted working on high catches and outfielding. While Samson remains in contention — he was the only batter to face two batting stints in the session — signs point towards Jitesh being preferred for the opening clash.
Skipper and Squad in Full Flow
Captain Suryakumar Yadav looked to find rhythm after his surgery layoff, while Sanju, Gill, and Jitesh all spent extended time in the middle. Abhishek Sharma showcased his all-round skills, rolling his arm over with spin variations, as India’s coaching staff observed closely.
The session, intense yet sprinkled with banter, reflected India’s mood ahead of their Asia Cup title defence — competitive, energetic, and determined.
India begin their campaign against hosts UAE on September 10 in Dubai, before locking horns with arch-rivals Pakistan on September 14 in the marquee clash of the group stage. Their final group fixture will be against Oman in Abu Dhabi on September 19.
