Defending champions India on Friday took part in a full-fledged practice session at the ICC Academy in Dubai, finalising their preparations for the Asia Cup. India will begin their campaign against hosts UAE on September 10, followed by clashes with arch-rivals Pakistan on September 14 and Oman on September 19.
This was the first time the players practiced together since the 2-2 drawn Test series against England last month. Captain Suryakumar Yadav, vice-captain Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Jitesh Sharma, Tilak Verma and Abhishek Sharma all practised batting at the nets.
Many senior players were seen during the practice session
Many senior players including Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav got a month’s rest before the tournament. The team management did not hold a training camp at the BCCI Centre of Excellence and instead decided to reach Dubai early to acclimatise themselves.
According to reports, there is confusion over Sanju Samson’s batting order after Gill is part of the T20 team. Reports claim that Gill and Abhishek Sharma will open and Samson will play at number three.
Among the senior players, Jasprit Bumrah was also in everyone’s sights. His last match in this format was in the 2024 T20 World Cup final, where his 2 for 18 helped India win by seven runs over South Africa and he also became the ‘Player of the Series’ with 15 wickets.
The Indian team, which won the Champions Trophy in the United Arab Emirates earlier this year, trained under the guidance of head coach Gambhir, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak and bowling coach Morne Morkel.
India vs Pakistan – September 14
India are the scheduled hosts of the tournament, which is being held at various venues in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Group A comprises India, Pakistan, UAE and Oman, while Group B comprises Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Hong Kong.
India matches in Asia Cup: India vs UAE – September 10, India vs Pakistan – September 14, India vs Oman – September 19.
FAQ
Where is Team India preparing for the Asia Cup 2025?
Team India is conducting net practice sessions in Dubai ahead of the Asia Cup 2025.
What is the purpose of India’s net practice in Dubai?
The net practice is to prepare players, improve form, and fine-tune strategies for the Asia Cup 2025.
Which players are participating in the net practice sessions?
The entire Indian squad selected for the Asia Cup 2025 is participating in the practice sessions.
How intense are the practice sessions?
Reports suggest the sessions are highly intense, focusing on batting, bowling, fielding, and overall match readiness.