Ahead of the blockbuster Asia Cup 2025 final against arch-rivals Pakistan, the Indian team decided to skip their scheduled training session on Saturday, September 27.
Team India says no to practice session ahead of Asia Cup 2025 final
The Indian team management has consciously prioritised rest and recovery over physical preparation for the title clash. Given the tight schedule and back-to-back matches, the medical and coaching staff felt it was essential to emphasize player freshness and injury prevention. To prepare for the high-stakes final, the players have undergone extensive recovery sessions. These protocols include using ice baths, pool therapy, and massages, along with ensuring they get proper sleep. The primary goal of these measures is to minimize the risk of injury for the final, where peak physical performance will be absolutely crucial for winning the championship.
This decision followed a physically and emotionally draining Super Over victory against Sri Lanka in their final Super 4 encounter on September 26 at the Dubai International Stadium.
Even India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel, explained this decision at the post-match press conference. He detailed India’s recovery protocols, which include essential measures like ice baths, pool therapy, massages, and ensuring players get quality sleep. It is also worth noting that during the hard-fought match against Sri Lanka, key players Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma were visibly absent from the field for most of India’s bowling innings, underscoring the team's need for rest.
Morkel, provided an update on the fitness of the two key players. He reported that Abhishek Sharma is currently recovering well. However, Hardik Pandya’s condition will be assessed further throughout Saturday, and a final decision on his availability for the upcoming final will be made then.
"There will be individual pool sessions for the guys organised. Then some massages before they get mentally ready for the big battle on Sunday. It's a quick turnaround, and playing smart is going to be the key. There will certainly be no training," he said at the post-match press conference.
The Asia Cup 2025 final will mark the third highly anticipated meeting between India and Pakistan in this edition of the tournament. The stakes are immense, and with the match being held in Dubai, a massive crowd is expected to turn out for what promises to be another thrilling, nerve-wracking contest.
India enter the final with significant confidence, having remained unbeaten throughout the tournament. Their dramatic Super Over victory against Sri Lanka would have injected substantial momentum into the squad. Nevertheless, fitness concerns surrounding both Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma could prove to be a point of concern for the team just hours before the much-awaited final clash.