India begin Asia Cup 2025 with 9-Wicket rout of UAE

September 10, 2025

Dubai: India launched their Asia Cup 2025 campaign in emphatic fashion, thrashing the United Arab Emirates by nine wickets in their opening group-stage clash on Wednesday.

Chasing a modest target of 58, India overhauled the score in just 4.3 overs. Opener Abhishek Sharma led the charge with a blistering 30 off 16 deliveries, including three sixes and two fours. Vice-captain Shubman Gill provided support with an unbeaten 20 off nine balls, striking two fours and a six as the Men in Blue wrapped up victory with 93 balls to spare.

Earlier, the UAE batting line-up collapsed against India’s spin-heavy attack, folding for 57 in 13.1 overs. Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav starred with figures of 4 wickets, while all-rounder Shivam Dube claimed 3, leaving the opposition reeling. The UAE never recovered from early setbacks, with only two batters reaching double figures.

The one-sided contest gave India a strong start to their title campaign, highlighting the depth in both their batting and bowling departments. The victory margin also provided a significant boost to their net run rate, which could prove crucial in the later stages of the tournament.

India will next face stronger opposition as the tournament progresses, but the commanding win reaffirmed their status as one of the tournament favourites.