Match Overview
India kicks off their Asia Cup 2025 campaign tonight, September 10, against hosts United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the Dubai International Stadium, with the action starting at 8:00 PM IST
Venue & Timing
- Stadium: Dubai International Stadium
- Toss: 7:30 PM IST
- Match Start: 8:00 PM IST
- Weather: Clear skies and stable conditions—rain unlikely to interfere.Navbharat Times
- TV Coverage: Live on Sony Sports Network and streamable via SonyLIVThe Indian ExpressThe Economic Times
Teams & Tactics
India
- Leadership: Skipper Suryakumar Yadav, coached by Gautam Gambhir. India enters as Asia Cup defending champions and ICC Top-ranked T20 team.The Times of IndiaNDTV SportsBusiness Standard
- Strategic Depth: Emphasis on multi-skilled all-rounders and batting depth up to No. 8 makes them well balanced and flexible.Business StandardMoneycontrol
- Key Selection Juggles:
- Shubman Gill returns and is likely to open alongside Abhishek Sharma.MoneycontrolBusiness StandardNDTV Sports
- Sanju Samson’s spot is under pressure, with his fitness a concern and competition tightening due to Jitesh Sharma’s form.Maharashtra TimesHindustan TimesNDTV Sports
- The spin vs pace debate continues: Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav both in consideration.MoneycontrolBusiness Standard
UAE
- Captaincy: Muhammad Waseem leads the Scorpions, maintaining composure and downplaying the pressure against India, calling it “just another game.”Samayam MalayalamThe Times of India
- While early underdogs, the UAE team is gaining confidence with recent performances and aims to test India early in the tournament.The Times of India+1NDTV Sports
Key Players to Watch
| Team | Players to Watch |
|---|---|
| India | Suryakumar Yadav, Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel |
| UAE | Muhammad Waseem, Junaid Siddique |
— India looks for dominant bat-first strategies supported by strong bowling and spin options.
— UAE banking on Waseem’s form and team work ethic to puncture India’s rhythm.
Why This Match Matters
- Dress Rehearsal Element: This serves as a strategic warm-up before facing Pakistan on September 14.The Times of India
- UAE’s Big Chance: Facing a powerhouse like India offers rare visibility and opportunity to make a statement on the continental stage.The Times of India
Final Thoughts
India faces a high-stakes opener against UAE with everything to lose—not only the match, but also momentum in the tournament. With form, balance, and top T20 credentials, they’re expected to push hard. Yet watch out, UAE will play inspired cricket, hoping to stun the favorites early on.
Tags
#uae vs india #India vs UAE Asia Cup 2025 #Asia Cup 2025