India began their Asia Cup 2025 campaign in style, thrashing the UAE by nine wickets in Dubai on September 10. Suryakumar Yadav’s side completely dominated the game to secure an easy win.
Batting first, UAE crumbled after a decent start. From 41/2 in the powerplay, they collapsed to just 57 all out. Alishan Sharafu (22) and Muhammad Waseem (19) were the only batters to get runs, while Kuldeep Yadav (4 wickets) and Shivam Dube (3 wickets) starred with the ball.
Chasing a small target, India made quick work of it in only 4.3 overs. Abhishek Sharma smashed 30 off 16 balls, while Shubman Gill remained unbeaten on 20 from nine deliveries, taking India to the top of the Group A table with a strong net run rate.
Here, we take a look at three moments from the clash that generated buzz among the fans:
1. Kuldeep Yadav takes three wickets in a single over
Kuldeep Yadav completely turned the game in India’s favor with a magical ninth over. He first got Rahul Chopra caught at long-on, then trapped the UAE skipper LBW on the fourth ball, and finally bowled Harshit Kaushik with an inside edge.
The left-arm spinner finished with outstanding figures of 4 wickets for just 7 runs in 2.1 overs and rightly won the Player of the Match award.
2. Suryakumar Yadav wins hearts with an act of sportsmanship
In the 13th over, Junaid Siddique was run out after stepping out of his crease while pointing out Shivam Dube’s towel falling off. Sanju Samson smartly hit the stumps, but what followed impressed everyone.
India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav decided to withdraw the appeal, giving Siddique another chance. Though the UAE batter was dismissed soon after, SKY’s gesture was praised for showing true sportsmanship.
3. Abhishek Sharma kicks off India’s run chase with an authoritative six
India’s chase began with fireworks as Abhishek Sharma smashed the very first ball of the innings for a six over long-off. The young opener didn’t hold back and set the tone with his fearless batting.
He entertained fans with a short but impactful knock, hitting three sixes and two fours. With a strike rate of 187.50, Abhishek’s cameo made sure India wrapped up the chase in no time.
