Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav has expressed his team’s excitement for their upcoming ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 clash against Pakistan, following a dominant opening victory over the United Arab Emirates. India began their campaign in emphatic fashion, thrashing the hosts by nine wickets after a devastating bowling performance saw UAE dismissed for a mere 57 runs. The comprehensive win sets a confident tone for the team as they look ahead to the tournament’s marquee match.
The Indian bowlers were in complete control from the outset after Yadav won the toss and elected to field. Left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav was the standout performer, claiming a four-wicket haul to dismantle the UAE batting lineup in just 13.1 overs. He was well-supported by Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, and Jasprit Bumrah in a clinical display that showcased the team’s potent attack. In response, India chased down the modest target of 58 in just 4.3 overs, losing only one wicket.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Captain Yadav explained his decision to bowl first was to assess the pitch’s behavior, noting it remained slow and conducive to spin. He praised the “clinical performance” and the positive attitude and energy shown by his team on the field. Yadav also highlighted the advantage of the team’s recent experience in the conditions, having played in the UAE during the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.
Yadav reserved special praise for opener Abhishek Sharma, the world’s top-ranked T20I batter, for setting an aggressive tone in the chase regardless of the target. Looking ahead, the Indian captain confirmed the entire squad is eagerly anticipating the blockbuster contest against arch-rivals Pakistan, which is set to take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
