The Asia Cup 2025 saw a strong start by the defending champions, India. They convincingly defeated the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in their opening match, winning by 9 wickets with a substantial 93 balls remaining. The Indian bowlers were in top form, restricting UAE to a low score of 57 runs. Kuldeep Yadav, the leading spinner for India, took three wickets in an over, significantly impacting the UAE’s batting performance. Following the match, former Pakistani captain Wasim Akram praised Yadav’s bowling, comparing the UAE team’s level of play to that of a school team. Former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja also commented on the performance of UAE and raised questions about the future of the Asia Cup.
Kuldeep Yadav’s outstanding bowling performance in the 9th over of the UAE innings was instrumental in limiting the UAE score to 57 runs. In the Asia Cup match against India, the UAE team was all out at 57 runs in 13.1 overs. Kuldeep Yadav’s figures were impressive, with three wickets for just seven runs in 2.1 overs. This performance drew accolades from former Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram.
During commentary on Sony Sports, Akram said, “What talent is on display here? This player understands the short format very well and bowls accordingly. Kuldeep is adding variety to his bowling, which the batsmen are finding hard to understand.” Akram then commented that Kuldeep was bowling against UAE as if facing a school team. Ajay Jadeja, a former Indian cricketer, also made an important statement regarding the Asia Cup during the broadcast.
Ajay Jadeja, while providing commentary on Sony Sports, criticized the UAE’s performance. He stated that if weaker teams continue to underperform in this manner, the future of the Asia Cup could be jeopardized. He suggested that the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) organizers must evaluate whether they aim to include these less competitive teams or focus on teams that showcase good cricket.
Jadeja pointed out that the disappointing displays from weaker teams are negatively affecting the excitement surrounding the Asia Cup. He called for the ACC to address the issue. The Indian team’s victory by 9 wickets in their opening match against UAE was a positive start to the tournament.