Asia Cup 2025: Ajinkya Rahane Highlights Key Players for Team India
Asia Cup 2025 Approaches
Ajinkya Rahane: The Asia Cup 2025 is just around the corner, with only three days left until its commencement on September 9. The Indian team arrived in the UAE on September 4 and is set to play its first match against the UAE on September 10, followed by a clash with Pakistan on September 14. As the defending champions, Team India is gearing up for the tournament. Rahane has shared his insights on five Indian players who he believes will play a crucial role in this competition.
Leadership Roles in the Indian Team
This time, the Indian team will be led by Suryakumar Yadav, with Shubman Gill serving as the vice-captain. Both players will not only be responsible for guiding the team towards the title but also for showcasing their leadership skills.
Rahane's Top Five Impact Players
Rahane Identifies Key Players
Rahane highlighted Axar Patel as a match-winner, noting his significant improvement over the past few years. He stated, 'I believe he has been underestimated. Over the last two to three years, he has shown considerable growth as a player. Whenever given the chance, he has performed exceptionally well for the team. He can bowl with the new ball during powerplays, in the middle overs, and even in death overs when needed.'
Hardik Pandya's Crucial Role
Why Hardik Pandya is Important
Rahane emphasized that Hardik Pandya will play a vital role in the tournament, possessing the ability to turn matches around single-handedly. He remarked, 'Hardik's role in this Asia Cup will be crucial. As an all-rounder, he has previously delivered outstanding performances for the team. Coming in at number five or six, he has shown the ability to play with a high strike rate and adapt to the situation. I am confident he can do it again. I want to see him bowl four overs for the team. If he can achieve that, it will create a great balance in the team.'
Suryakumar Yadav's Leadership
Focus on Suryakumar Yadav
Rahane also mentioned Suryakumar Yadav as a key player for the Asia Cup 2025, given his role as the team leader. He noted, 'Although his performance in the series against England was not up to the mark, he made a strong comeback in the IPL with five half-centuries and was the second-highest run-scorer in the tournament. We all know that Suryakumar is a dangerous batsman. It will be interesting to see how he performs post-surgery.'
Jasprit Bumrah's Impact
Rahane on Jasprit Bumrah
As the spearhead of India's pace attack, Bumrah is known for being one of the most formidable bowlers in the world. Rahane expressed his eagerness to see Bumrah in action during the Asia Cup, stating, 'He hasn't played any T20 internationals this year, but he has been in excellent form in the shorter format. He can come in at any time and make an impact, delivering tight overs that can win matches. We all know his capabilities; he is a match-winner. Even if he doesn't take wickets, he can bowl tight overs that benefit the team.'
Praise for Arshdeep Singh
Highlighting Arshdeep Singh
Rahane praised young bowler Arshdeep Singh, expressing excitement about seeing him bowl alongside Bumrah. He said, 'We are all aware of his skills. He can swing the ball both ways and bowl yorkers with the new ball, which is a valuable skill. You don't want to rely solely on Bumrah or any other bowler. Arshdeep can deliver yorkers, straight yorkers, and wide yorkers. He has the ability to deceive batsmen and take wickets.'
Asia Cup 2025 Schedule
When is the Asia Cup 2025 Final?
The Asia Cup 2025 will kick off on September 9, with the final scheduled for September 28. A total of eight teams will compete for the title, divided into two groups. India has been entrusted with hosting the tournament, which will take place in the UAE. Group A consists of India, Pakistan, the UAE, and Oman, while Group B includes Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong.