NEW DELHI: India kick-started their Asia Cup 2025 title defense preparations with an intense training session at the ICC Academy in Dubai on Friday.
The practice marked the squad’s first full session since the England Test series. Instead of holding a preparatory camp at the
BCCI Centre of Excellence, the management chose to arrive early in Dubai to acclimatise. The BCCI later released behind-the-scenes footage from the nets, highlighting both hard work and camaraderie among players.
Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!Jasprit Bumrah’s return to the T20I setup was a major talking point. The pacer last played in the 2024 T20 World Cup final, where his 2/18 against South Africa helped India clinch the trophy. After a 40-day layoff and scrutiny for missing part of the England Test series, Bumrah said he was refreshed.
ALSO READ: 'Whenever you play for your country ...': Gambhir's message ahead of Asia Cup as prep begins in Dubai"It feels really good. I have joined the T20 group after a long time. This layover was really good. I got some time home. Young energy and young people in our team, so yeah, looking forward to it. Exciting times ahead," Bumrah shared about his time off.
All-rounder
Hardik Pandya, who arrived at training sporting new blonde hair, also opened up on how he used his break, emphasising family and early fitness work.
"This time I really took time for my son. I spent a lot of time with him and at the same point of time I thought I would start my sports training and everything earlier. This feels like a very good bunch of people around, and a very exciting talent," Pandya said.
The session was overseen by Gambhir, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, and bowling coach Morne Morkel. Players trained in logo-free jerseys after the end of Dream11’s sponsorship.
India, eight-time Asia Cup champions, are grouped with Pakistan, UAE, and Oman. They open their campaign against hosts UAE on September 10, followed by a marquee clash with Pakistan on September 14 and a group tie against Oman on September 19. Playoffs begin September 20.
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