![UAE to compete in Asia Cup with India, Pakistan [Source: @EmiratesCricket/X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1755583589667_UAE_India_Pakistan_Asia_Cup_2025(1).jpg?type=mq)
UAE to compete in Asia Cup with India, Pakistan [Source: @EmiratesCricket/X.com]
The Asia Cup 2025 is just about to arrive, and the UAE cricket team have begun preparing for it. UAE head coach Lalchand Rajput feels his side has the talent and the confidence to stage major upsets against cricketing powerhouses such as India and Pakistan.
The UAE side enters the tournament with fresh belief after registering notable wins over Test-playing nations Bangladesh and Afghanistan. These victories, according to Rajput, have given the players the confidence that they can stand toe-to-toe with the best.
UAE Placed In Same Group As India, Pakistan In Asia Cup
Placed in a tough group alongside India, Pakistan, and Oman, the UAE squad faces a huge challenge. But in the fast-paced format of T20 cricket, the coach, Lalchand Rajput, talking to Gulf News, insists anything is possible and his team shouldn’t be ruled out.
“The crucial phase is beginning for the UAE team. Beating Test-playing countries, especially Bangladesh, gave us a lot of confidence. It’s not about overconfidence, it’s about believing we can compete and win against anyone. You never know, anything can happen. We can upset any team," Rajput said.
Interestingly, the team has begun preparation for the tournament with a key focus on fitness and discipline. Evening training sessions have been scheduled to cope with Dubai’s extreme summer heat.
“We are focusing on skills, fitness, and fielding. Playing against better teams requires players to be mentally strong and physically fit. Fitness is very important. Players’ improvement and form are essential. They cannot remain stagnant. We want to keep building on the momentum. If you can beat a team like Bangladesh, why not aim for bigger upsets? Our players are excited and ready to take that challenge," he added.
Players are said to be being pushed hard to enhance their capabilities and fitness, with physical tests such as the yo-yo test having a role to play in making final selections. Injured players will only be considered if fully fit, showing the professional approach of the management.
UAE To Host A Tri-Series In The Lead Up To The Asia Cup
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will host Pakistan and Afghanistan in a seven-match T20I tri-series at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium from August 29 to September 7.
The competition will act as a dress rehearsal for the T20 Asia Cup 2025, which begins just two days after the final. Pakistan and Afghanistan will face off in the opener on August 29, while hosts UAE begin against Pakistan on August 30.
The top two sides after six league games will contest the final on September 7, offering all teams crucial preparation before the Asia Cup.
