As the 2025 Asia Cup approaches, a renowned cricketing legend has made a striking prediction. He believes that Team India is poised to lift the trophy once again.
The Asia Cup 2025 is set to kick off on September 9th, with India defending its title as the reigning champions. However, this year’s tournament features a shift it’s now a 20 over format. Such a change could level the playing field, making no team a clear favorite and intensifying the competition.
Ahead of the tournament, a cricketing veteran has shared his insights and bold forecast.
The Veteran’s Bold Prediction
Former Sri Lankan fast bowler and all rounder Farveez Maharoof has confidently stated that India will emerge victorious in this T20 Asia Cup.
He believes the Indian team, given their current form and preparation, is the outright favorite to claim the crown. With the tournament taking place in the UAE from September 9 to 28, the stakes are high.
India’s recent form has been impressive they recently whitewashed England 4-1 in a home series, which has only boosted their confidence ahead of this high stakes event.
Maharuf has also pointed out that Sri Lanka and Bangladesh could be the dark horses of the tournament.
He emphasizes that in T20 cricket, a single exceptional day can turn the tide, and anything is possible. India has a rich history in the Asia Cup, having lifted the trophy eight times, including the 2016 edition hosted in Bangladesh.
This year, the tournament is hosted in the UAE, and the excitement is palpable.
India the Clear Favorite
“I believe India is the clear favorite,” Maharuf asserts. “Their team looks very strong right now. Sri Lanka and Bangladesh could surprise us, but in T20s, it’s all about that one special day. India’s squad is well balanced and formidable.”
India will kick off their Group A campaign on September 10 in Dubai, taking on the UAE. Following that, they face Pakistan on September 14, at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Their third group match will be against Oman on September 19 in Abu Dhabi.
Bowling Attack Sets the Tone
Maharuf emphasizes the importance of India’s pace attack, especially highlighting the presence of Jasprit Bumrah. “With Bumrah in the squad, India has a very strong bowling setup,” he remarks.
Alongside Bumrah, India boasts talented fast bowlers like Arshdeep Singh, Hardik Pandya, and Harshit Rana. Shivam Dube also offers an extra option with the ball.
He further explains, “It’s hard to say which team has the best bowling attack, but with Bumrah leading the pace unit, India certainly has an advantage.
Pakistan is also a very strong contender, and Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are evenly matched perhaps India and Pakistan are on equal footing, as are Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.”
The cricketing world waits with bated breath. The question remains: will India finally reclaim the Asia Cup crown, or will the underdogs rise to the occasion? One thing’s for sure this tournament promises drama, excitement, and unforgettable cricketing moments.
