Introduction :
The Asia Cup 2025 began with a one-sided contest between UAE vs INDIA at the Dubai International Stadium. India dominated from start to finish, defeating the hosts by nine wickets and completing one of the quickest run chases in T20 international history. This opening clash not only highlighted India’s strength but also exposed the gulf between a full-member side and an emerging cricketing nation.
Toss Breakthrough: India Finally Wins :
One small yet significant moment in the UAE vs INDIA match came even before the first ball was bowled. India won the toss after losing it for 16 consecutive international games. Captain Suryakumar Yadav had no hesitation in choosing to bowl first on a fresh Dubai wicket, a decision that proved to be absolutely correct.
UAE’s Batting Collapse :
The batting effort from UAE never gained momentum. Indian bowlers dismantled their lineup with precision, bundling them out for just 57 runs in 13.1 overs. This total became UAE’s lowest in Asia Cup history and one of the most forgettable outings in T20Is.
Kuldeep Yadav was the chief destroyer, taking 4 wickets for just 7 runs with his sharp spin and variations. His spell completely broke UAE’s backbone. Adding to the damage, Shivam Dube picked up 3 wickets in just 10 balls, using pace and bounce to rattle the opposition.
With such ruthless bowling, UAE vs INDIA became a showcase of India’s depth and versatility in attack.
Record-Breaking Chase :
Chasing 58 was always going to be easy, but India decided to make a statement. They reached the target in just 4.3 overs—the fastest successful run chase in men’s T20I cricket when measured by overs.
Abhishek Sharma played a fiery knock of 30 runs from just 16 balls, smashing boundaries at will. Shubman Gill remained unbeaten on 20, while captain Suryakumar Yadav chipped in with 7 not out. The scoreboard read 60/1, sealing a nine-wicket victory that stamped India’s authority on the tournament.
Sportsmanship on Display
Amid the dominance of UAE vs INDIA, one incident won hearts. During a run-out appeal against UAE’s Junaid Siddique, the third umpire had declared him out. However, Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav withdrew the appeal after realizing that bowler Shivam Dube’s towel had fallen during the run-up, which could have distracted the batter. This rare act of sportsmanship reminded fans that cricket is still the “gentleman’s game.”
Kuldeep Yadav’s Match-Turning Spell :
The real star of UAE vs INDIA was Kuldeep Yadav. His spell of 4/7 was a masterclass in spin bowling. He used flight, dip, and turn to confuse the UAE batters, forcing them into false strokes. His ability to pick wickets in quick succession meant that UAE never had a chance to recover. Kuldeep’s performance once again proved why he is India’s go-to bowler in white-ball cricket.
Shivam Dube’s Impactful Contribution :
While Kuldeep stole the headlines, Shivam Dube’s contribution cannot be overlooked. His three wickets came at crucial junctures and added to UAE’s misery. Dube’s variations and use of bounce showed that he is evolving as a genuine bowling option in addition to his batting skills. For India, having such an all-rounder brings more balance to the playing XI.
UAE’s Struggles and Learning Curve :
For UAE, the UAE vs INDIA clash was a tough lesson. Their batters failed to rotate strike, lacked intent, and struggled against high-quality spin. While the loss was heavy, playing against a top side like India gives UAE valuable exposure. Matches like these are stepping stones for Associate Nations to learn, adapt, and improve their game at the international level.
Looking Ahead: India’s Next Big Test :
After the dominant win in UAE vs INDIA, India’s attention now shifts to their next group-stage clash against Pakistan. Unlike UAE, Pakistan come with a strong bowling attack led by Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Shadab Khan. The encounter promises to be high voltage, testing India’s batting depth and bowling consistency.
India’s positive start gives them momentum, but the real test will be handling pressure against stronger opponents. If the opening game was about dominance, the upcoming matches will demand patience, strategy, and composure.
Match Highlights: UAE vs INDIA :
- Venue: Dubai International Stadium.
- Toss: India won, chose to bowl.
- UAE Innings: All out for 57 in 13.1 overs.
- Top Bowlers: Kuldeep Yadav (4/7), Shivam Dube (3 wickets).
- India’s Chase: 60/1 in 4.3 overs.
- Top Batters: Abhishek Sharma (30 off 16), Shubman Gill (20*), Suryakumar Yadav (7*).
- Result: India won by 9 wickets, fastest T20I chase by overs.
Conclusion :
The opening UAE vs INDIA match in Asia Cup 2025 will be remembered as one of the most dominant displays in the tournament’s history. India’s bowlers destroyed UAE’s batting lineup, while their batters chased the target with record-breaking speed. Alongside aggression, moments of sportsmanship added grace to their performance.
For India, this was the perfect start—momentum, confidence, and a strong message to other teams. For UAE, it was a tough defeat but also an opportunity to learn and grow. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will now be on India’s next challenge against Pakistan, a contest that promises fireworks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – UAE vs INDIA Asia Cup 2025
Q1: Who won the UAE vs INDIA Asia Cup 2025 match?
India won the UAE vs INDIA Asia Cup 2025 match in dominant fashion, defeating UAE by nine wickets at the Dubai International Stadium.
Q2: What was UAE’s score in the UAE vs INDIA match?
UAE were bowled out for just 57 runs in 13.1 overs, their lowest total in Asia Cup history.
Q3: Who was the top performer in UAE vs INDIA?
Kuldeep Yadav was the star of UAE vs INDIA, taking 4 wickets for 7 runs. Shivam Dube also impressed with 3 wickets.
Q4: How fast did India chase the target in UAE vs INDIA?
India completed the chase in only 4.3 overs, making it the fastest successful run chase in men’s T20I cricket measured by overs.
Q5: Who scored the most runs for India in UAE vs INDIA?
Abhishek Sharma top-scored for India with 30 runs off just 16 balls, setting the tone for a quick chase.
Q6: Where was the UAE vs INDIA Asia Cup 2025 match played?
The UAE vs INDIA clash took place at the Dubai International Stadium.
Q7: What is India’s next match after UAE vs INDIA?
After their dominant win, India will face Pakistan in their next Asia Cup 2025 group-stage game.
*source : icc
* Image credit : sonyliv
