ABU DHABI: India won the toss and chose to bat first in the last Pool A match of the Asia Cup 2025, set to take place at the Abu Dhabi International Cricket Stadium on Friday. While both India and Pakistan from this group have already secured their spots in the Super Four stage, this game carries significance beyond the points table.
For India, the contest is about maintaining an unbeaten streak and sending a strong message of dominance ahead of the tournament’s critical phase. Oman, on the other hand, enters the match with pride and the hope of registering their maiden Asia Cup win.
India’s Dominance So Far
India’s campaign in the Asia Cup has been near flawless. They crushed UAE by bowling them out for just 57 runs, chasing the target in a swift 4.3 overs. Against Pakistan, India comfortably chased 128 in under 16 overs. A key factor behind India’s success has been their spin trio, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakaravarthy.
On the batting side, Abhishek Sharma has been explosive at the top, while captain Suryakumar Yadav has been steady and composed in the middle order. The only minor concern remains Shubman Gill’s early dismissal and the untested middle and lower order, but there is ample time to build a commanding batting line-up.
Oman’s Campaign So Far
Oman have endured a tough start. They were bowled out for just 67 runs against Pakistan and showed some fight against UAE but ultimately fell short while chasing 173. Batsmen like Hammad Mirza, Aryan Bisht, and Vinayak Shukla have shown flashes of resilience, and Jatinder Singh’s early aggression indicated the team’s intent. However, batting collapses have plagued Oman, highlighting a lack of composure.
On the bowling front, Oman’s attack holds promise but has struggled with consistency. Shah Faisal and Aamir Kaleem impressed with early wickets against Pakistan, while Jiten Ramanandi and Hassnain Shah chipped in against UAE. However, expensive spells and leaking too many boundaries, especially in the middle and death overs, remain concerns.
Match Outlook and Key Battles
The Abu Dhabi pitch has played true, offering a balanced contest for batsmen and spinners alike. Recent data suggests spinners find less assistance here compared to Dubai, where spin bowling stats have been much more favourable. This could influence team strategies, with both sides expected to adjust their bowling plans accordingly.
Key questions ahead of the match include:
Can Oman’s bowlers execute precise lengths to contain India’s aggressive top order, especially the explosive Abhishek Sharma and steady Suryakumar Yadav?
Will Oman’s batting finally hold steady against India’s potent spin attack, especially Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy?
India enters the match with confidence and rhythm, looking to continue their unblemished run. Oman, while underdogs, will fight to break their Asia Cup win drought and test India’s resolve.
