The countdown has begun. With less than two weeks to go for the Asia Cup 2025, the excitement is at fever pitch. India’s campaign kicks off on September 10 against hosts UAE, but all eyes are already fixed on September 14 the blockbuster clash against arch-rivals Pakistan in Dubai.
As defending champions and the most successful team in Asia Cup history, the Men in Blue walk in as overwhelming favourites. This will be the 17th edition of the continental tournament, and India are aiming for their ninth title. But this year, there’s more at stake a chance to carve their name into the history books forever.
A Shot at History in Asia Cup 2025
India’s T20I form in the build-up has been nothing short of staggering 35 wins in their last 40 matches. If they lift the trophy on September 28, they will achieve what no other team has ever done: become the first side to win two Asia Cups in the T20I format.
Out of the 16 editions so far, 14 have been played in the 50-over format. Only in 2016 and 2022 was the tournament held in the T20I format. India triumphed under MS Dhoni in 2016, while Sri Lanka clinched glory in 2022. Notably, Dhoni remains the only captain to have lifted the Asia Cup in both formats.
Now, under the dynamic leadership of Suryakumar Yadav, India have a golden opportunity to rewrite history by claiming a second T20I Asia Cup crown.
Suryakumar’s Men: A Balanced Squad for the Challenge
Suryakumar Yadav leads a side brimming with talent and balance. The batting lineup features the fearless Shubman Gill, the versatile Sanju Samson, and the rising star Abhishek Sharma. In the middle order, Hardik Pandya provides depth as a genuine all rounder, while the pace attack will be spearheaded by the returning Jasprit Bumrah, a reassuring sight for Indian fans.
Yet, the squad announcement hasn’t been without its controversies. The absence of KL Rahul, Mohammed Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, and Yashasvi Jaiswal has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike. For Suryakumar, however, the focus will be on ensuring that this group finds rhythm and momentum early in the campaign.
Road to the 2026 T20 World Cup Begins Here
The Asia Cup isn’t just about continental supremacy. For India, it is also the beginning of their march towards the 2026 T20 World Cup, which will be hosted on home soil. After this tournament, India are scheduled to play 15 T20Is in bilateral series crucial preparation for the global event where they will look to defend their crown, having won the 2024 edition.
The Men in Blue also come into the Asia Cup with the confidence of having won the last edition in 2023, albeit in the ODI format. Overall, their tally of eight Asia Cup titles is unmatched proof of India’s dominance in the competition over the decades.
