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The stage is set for the Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to begin on September 9 in the UAE. The tournament promises thrilling cricketing action as top Asian teams lock horns for continental supremacy. Fans across the subcontinent are eagerly awaiting blockbuster clashes, none more so than the high-voltage India-Pakistan encounter on September 14 in Abu Dhabi.
India, placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Oman, and the UAE, begin their campaign against the hosts on September 10. They wrap up their group-stage fixtures with a clash against Oman on September 19. Given the format and the quality of opponents, every match will hold significance as teams look to secure a place in the knockout rounds.
Virender Sehwag names India’s potential match-winners
Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag has weighed in on the team’s prospects, identifying three players he believes can be genuine game-changers for India. Speaking on Sony Sports Network, Sehwag highlighted Abhishek Sharma’s fearless batting style as a potential turning point in crunch matches. He also backed pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, calling him a natural game-changer whose ability to deliver under pressure is unmatched. Adding to the mix, Sehwag picked mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy, noting his effectiveness in the Champions Trophy and his knack for unsettling batters in the T20 format.
“I think Abhishek Sharma can be a game-changer. Bumrah is always a game-changer. Varun Chakravarthy, with his mystery bowling, was very effective in the Champions Trophy and in the T20 format as well. So, these are some game changers for India who can win matches on their own,” said Sehwag.
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High expectations from Suryakumar Yadav-led India
India will head into the tournament under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav, with Shubman Gill serving as vice-captain. The squad boasts a blend of youth and experience, featuring the likes of Sanju Samson, Hardik Pandya, Abhishek, Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Axar Patel and Varun. With a balanced lineup capable of excelling in all departments, expectations are sky-high.
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