The excitement is building for the Asia Cup 2025 as T20 World Champions India face the hosts, the UAE, tonight. The match promises not only fireworks with the bat and ball but also a narrative of experience versus ambition, as the tournament favourites begin their campaign against a spirited home side looking to punch above its weight.
Led by dynamic batter Suryakumar Yadav, India enters the tournament with incredible momentum. Since lifting the T20 World Cup in 2024, the team has compiled a formidable 24-3 win-loss record. Their squad boasts an enviable mix of flair and firepower, with the likes of Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, and Tilak Varma bolstering the batting department, and Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav leading the bowling attack.
For India, this opener is more than just a must-win match, say reports; it’s a chance to fine-tune combinations, experiment with squad depth, and maintain their ruthless edge. Surya has already hinted at rotating players and even using part-timers like himself, Tilak, and Rinku, depending on the situation.
“They (UAE) have an exciting brand of cricket. Recently, they played a series and came very, very, very close to all the teams. We are very excited to play them,” said India skipper Suryakumar Yadav in his pre-match press conference.
For the UAE, this match represents an opportunity to test themselves against the very best in world cricket. Though they enter as underdogs, skipper Muhammad Waseem and his team have shown real intent in recent months — notably in a tough tri-series against Pakistan and Afghanistan, where they pushed both sides despite not securing a win.
Key players like Chirag Suri, Rohan Mustafa, Junaid Siddique, and Karthik Meiyappan bring experience and potential, though consistency has been a challenge. Still, Waseem remains optimistic:
Match Details
Fixture: India vs UAE, Asia Cup 2025 – Group Stage Match
Date: Tuesday, September 10, 2025
Time: 6:30 PM GST / 8:00 PM IST
Venue: Dubai International Stadium
How to Watch
TV Broadcast: Available on CricLife and CricLife Max via eLife TV and Switch TV
Live Streaming: Catch all the action live on StarzPlay – stream from anywhere on mobile, tablet, or desktop
A Clash of Styles and Stakes
Tonight’s match isn’t just a curtain-raiser; it’s a contest that captures the essence of tournament cricket. It’s India’s depth, experience, and world-champion confidence going up against the UAE’s hunger, pride, and home advantage. Whether you’re in the stadium or watching from afar, expect a fierce fight, electrifying performances, and a taste of what the Asia Cup 2025 has in store.
