Dubai, September 10 (NDTV): India launched their Asia Cup 2025 campaign with a thumping victory over hosts United Arab Emirates, cruising to a nine-wicket win at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The defending champions bowled UAE out for a mere 57 – their lowest-ever Asia Cup T20 total – before chasing down the target in just 4.3 overs, making it one of the shortest completed T20Is in history.
Kuldeep and Dube Shine with the Ball
Opting to bowl first after finally winning a toss, India struck early but UAE looked steady at 26/0 in the fourth over thanks to Alishan Sharafu’s brisk 22. The momentum, however, didn’t last. Kuldeep Yadav produced a magical spell, claiming four wickets for just seven runs in 2.1 overs, including a game-changing over where he dismissed three batters.
All-rounder Shivam Dube added to the carnage, finishing with 3/4 in his two overs. Axar Patel and Jasprit Bumrah chipped in with a wicket each as UAE collapsed spectacularly, losing eight wickets for just 10 runs and being bundled out in 13.1 overs.
Ruthless Indian Batting
Chasing 58, India showed no mercy. Abhishek Sharma opened the innings in blazing fashion, smashing three sixes in his quickfire 30 off 15 balls. His partner, vice-captain Shubman Gill, remained unbeaten on 24, while skipper Suryakumar Yadav struck a six off his very first delivery before Gill finished the job.
India reached 60/1 in just 4.3 overs, sealing victory with a staggering 93 balls to spare. This is now the second-largest T20I win by balls remaining for a full-member nation.
Records and Highlights
UAE’s total of 57 is their lowest in Asia Cup history and the second-lowest overall.
The match, completed in only 106 deliveries, was the fourth-shortest T20I involving a full-member side.
Kuldeep Yadav was named Player of the Match for his decisive spell.
Looking Ahead
India, ranked No. 1 in T20Is, have sent a strong warning to their rivals. Their next challenge is a high-voltage clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday, September 14. Pakistan will face Oman before locking horns with India.
With this commanding win, Suryakumar Yadav’s men have not only boosted their net run rate but also reinforced their reputation as the tournament favourites.
