Dubai, September 10, 2025 – The glittering Dubai International Stadium is all set to host a high-voltage Group A clash as India lock horns with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in their opening match of the Asia Cup 2025.
The city, known for staging global cricketing spectacles, once again takes center stage, having previously hosted T20 World Cups, Asia Cups, and the Champions Trophy earlier this year.
This encounter carries extra intrigue as it marks India’s return to T20I action after a lengthy break. Their last series in the format was a 4-1 victory over England on home soil in February 2025. Before that, their most recent away assignment came in South Africa in late 2024. While the IPL and domestic leagues have kept players busy, international cricket brings unique intensity, and this fixture will test how quickly the Indian side can adapt.
Led by the dynamic Suryakumar Yadav, the Indian squad boasts a mix of youth and experience. Shubman Gill, named vice-captain, will be under the spotlight at the top of the order after a strong summer in England. The opening slot alongside him is still up for grabs, with Abhishek Sharma slightly ahead of Sanju Samson. The middle order, bolstered by power-hitters and the all-round capabilities of Hardik Pandya, looks solid. Jasprit Bumrah’s return to T20Is after last year’s World Cup final adds firepower to the pace attack, complemented by Arshdeep Singh’s control. On spin-friendly Dubai tracks, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakaravarthy could play decisive roles.
For the UAE, the challenge is daunting yet promising. Captain Muhammad Waseem anchors their batting, while youngsters in the middle order aim to prove themselves. Their bowling, particularly at the death, remains a work in progress, with Muhammad Jawadullah and Junaid Siddique needing discipline against world-class batters.
History favors India, who beat the UAE in their only previous Asia Cup meeting back in 2016 at Mirpur. Yet, cricket has a habit of springing surprises, and the home side will be eager to exploit any slip-ups. For India, this is more than just a curtain-raiser—it is a chance to set the tone for the tournament and assert their dominance early. Fans can expect an electrifying contest under Dubai’s floodlights.