India’s left-arm wizard Kuldeep Yadav turned Dubai into his theatre on Wednesday night, scripting a spell that broke the backbone of the UAE batting lineup in India’s emphatic Asia Cup opener. His magical figures of 4 for 7 in just 2.1 overs left the hosts gasping, as India cruised to a nine-wicket victory.
After a frustrating England Test series on the sidelines, Kuldeep finally found his stage – and he made it count. Leaner, fitter, and hungrier, the spinner revealed his mantra for success: reading the batters like an open book.
“Thanks to Adrian (Le Roux), the trainer. I was working on both my bowling and fitness. Everything is going perfectly. The key was hitting the right length and reading what the batter was planning. Even today, I kept reacting to their moves,” Kuldeep said after his match-winning show.
The UAE never really recovered once Kuldeep found his rhythm. His variations were too hot to handle, and the hosts’ middle-order collapsed in a blink, ending any hopes of putting up a fight.
Skipper Suryakumar Lauds Clinical India
India’s stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav couldn’t have asked for a better start to the campaign. Calling the win “clinical,” he praised the team’s energy and Kuldeep’s decisive role.
“We wanted good attitude and energy on the field, and that’s exactly what we got. The wicket was a bit slow, spinners had a role, and Kuldeep was outstanding. He got great support from Hardik, Dube, and Bumrah,” the skipper said.
Suryakumar also reserved special words for young opener Abhishek Sharma, who once again showed why he is the No.1 ranked batter in the world.
“Abhishek sets the tone whether we chase 200 or 50. Unbelievable batting from him tonight. The boys are excited for the big one against Pakistan,” Surya added.
UAE Left Searching for Answers
For UAE skipper Muhammad Waseem, the night was a lesson in dealing with top-class opposition.
“We started well, but losing wickets in a cluster cost us the game. India are a brilliant team, their execution was spot-on, and that’s why they are No.1,” Waseem admitted.
What Lies Ahead
With this win, India have ticked all the boxes — fitness, form, and intent. Kuldeep’s return to his menacing best is a huge positive ahead of their blockbuster clash with arch-rivals Pakistan. Fans can already sense the heat rising as the Asia Cup heads into its marquee battle.
