India kicked off their Asia Cup 2025 journey in emphatic fashion, overpowering the UAE by nine wickets in a one-sided Group A clash at the Dubai International Stadium on Wednesday, September 10. Under the leadership of captain Suryakumar Yadav, the Men in Blue dismantled the UAE batting lineup, bowling them out for just 57 runs in 13.1 overs — the lowest total ever posted against India in T20I cricket.
Kuldeep Yadav was the star with the ball, scalping four wickets with his sharp spin, while Shivam Dube chipped in with three crucial strikes. The UAE batters had no answers to India’s disciplined bowling attack and folded without resistance.
India then made light work of the modest target of 58 runs, chasing it down in only 6.3 overs with a staggering 93 balls to spare. This victory marked India’s largest win in terms of deliveries remaining and the second-biggest by a full ICC member nation in T20I history.
Abhishek Sharma blazed his way to 30 off 15 balls, setting the tone early, while Shubman Gill and skipper Suryakumar Yadav remained unbeaten on 20 and 7 respectively to complete the rout.
During the post-match presentation, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar humorously asked Suryakumar if India would still receive full match fees despite the game finishing in less than two hours. The Indian captain responded with a smile, saying, “That we will talk about later. But yes, this was a clinical performance from the boys. We wanted positive energy and good intent on the field, and the team delivered.”
Explaining his strategy of deploying three spinners — Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Varun Chakaravarthy — Suryakumar highlighted the scorching Dubai conditions and the slower wicket. He also praised Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah for supporting the spin trio effectively.
“The wicket looked good but was slightly on the slower side. Spinners were always going to play a big role in these conditions. Alongside them, Hardik, Bumrah, and Shivam Dube provided great support,” said the skipper.
With this massive win, India have sent out a strong warning to their rivals. Their next challenge will be against Pakistan in a high-voltage clash on Sunday, September 14, at the same venue. Pakistan, led by Salman Ali Agha, will open their campaign against Oman on Friday.