Home
Team India have already started their grind for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 in Dubai before their campaign opener on September 10 against UAE. Meanwhile, right ahead of the continental tournament, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav was full of praise for his teammates' commitment and energy during Men in Blue's inaugural training session. He expressed confidence in the squad's prospects for the tournament, citing the high intensity and skill sets displayed by the players during their practice.
Suryakumar Yadav happy with team's preparation for Asia Cup
As the defending champions, India conducted a full-fledged practice session at the ICC Academy on Friday to finalize their preparations. The team will commence their campaign against the host nation, UAE, on September 10. Their schedule includes a marquee clash with Pakistan on September 14 and a match against Oman on September 19, with the playoffs set to begin on September 20.
“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. Because the way they put their body on the line, that’s what I want from them. And they just enjoy on the ground,” Suryakumar said in a video posted by BCCI on ‘X’.
Echoing the captain's positive remarks, vice-captain Shubman Gill, who recently led India to a 2-2 draw in the Test series against England, also expressed his confidence in the team's preparation. The 25-year-old from Punjab was a prominent figure during Friday's fitness drills and net sessions. Several other batsmen, including Sanju Samson, Jitesh Sharma, Tilak Varma, and Abhishek Sharma, also had extensive batting practice on the first day of training.
This training camp marks a significant reunion for the team, as it is their first time assembling since the drawn Test series in England. For a number of key players like Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Kuldeep Yadav, this camp marks their return to the squad after a month-long period of rest.
“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,” said Gill.
After the 2024 World Cup final in Bridgetown, Bumrah was also enthusiastic about his return to the T20I squad. As one of the senior players, his excitement was a positive sign for the team.
Bumrah's return to the T20I squad after the 2024 World Cup final in Bridgetown was met with optimism. The senior player was notably upbeat about rejoining the team, signaling a positive mood among the experienced members.
“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,” said the pace spearhead, who last played three Tests at the England series. Young energy, young people in our team, so yeah, looking forward to it, exciting times ahead,” he said.
Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya said:
“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."
Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh noted that the team environment was lively and energetic right from the start. He highlighted the positive atmosphere, which contributed to the team's overall morale and performance. According to left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, the team's atmosphere was vibrant from the moment they assembled. He emphasized that the positive and lively environment was a key factor for the team.
“It is a lively 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.
Shivam Dube disclosed the inspiring words from head coach Gautam Gambhir that helped establish a positive tone during their training sessions. Dube's statement emphasized how Gambhir's motivation was crucial in shaping the team's mindset and approach from the start.
“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.
India will open their campaign against UAE on September 10 before facing Pakistan and Oman on September 14 and September 19.
ADVERTISEMENT
