India start Asia Cup campaign decimating hosts UAE by 9 wickets

Choosing to bowl first, India’s bowlers turned the contest into a one-sided affair, skittling the UAE for just 57 in 13.1 overs.

It was a night to remember for the spinners and all-rounders. Kuldeep Yadav was the star with the ball, weaving his magic to finish with a stunning 4 for 7 in just 2.1 overs.

Shivam Dube chipped in brilliantly with three wickets, while Axar Patel and Varun Chakravarthy picked up one each. Jasprit Bumrah set the tone with the new ball, striking early and maintaining pressure.

The UAE batting lineup crumbled under relentless accuracy, with only Alishan Sharafu’s 22 from 17 standing out in a disappointing card.

Chasing a modest 58, India’s top order wasted no time. Abhishek Sharma smashed a quickfire 30 off 16 balls with two fours and three sixes, while Shubman Gill carried his bat with an unbeaten 20 from just nine deliveries.

Skipper Suryakumar Yadav added the finishing touches with a couple of big hits, ensuring India crossed the line in just 4.3 overs at a blistering run rate of 13.33.

"What mattered today was the way the boys turned up. It was a very professional effort. We asked for the right attitude and positive intent, and that carried through in the field and while batting, too," said Suryakumar after the match.

Player of the Match Kuldeep Yadav said, "First of all, I want to thank our trainer. I have been putting in a lot of work on my fitness and also fine-tuning my bowling. At the moment, things are falling into place really well. For me, the key is always to bowl at the right length. I also focus on reading what the batter is trying to do and adjust accordingly."

(With inputs from BCCI)