DUBAI: Bangladesh Captain Jaker Ali has won the toss and elected to field first against India in a crucial Super Four fixture of the Asia Cup 2025, being played at the Dubai International Stadium. With a place in the final on the line, the high-stakes encounter is expected to be a thriller, as both teams come into the match riding the wave of strong opening wins in the Super Four stage.
Momentum vs Grit: Clash of In-Form Sides
India’s unbeaten streak continues to impress, with their last win against Pakistan marked by a breathtaking opening stand between Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill, who put on 105 runs in under 10 overs. Despite a mid-innings wobble, India’s depth, anchored by Hardik Pandya and a dynamic lower order, makes them one of the most dangerous sides in the tournament.
Bangladesh, meanwhile, pulled off a spirited chase against Sri Lanka, with Towhid Hridoy and Saif Hassan leading the way. Though the chase went into the final over, Bangladesh showed nerves of steel, supported by sharp middle-over bowling and some gritty finishing.
Dubai stats and conditions favour the chasers
Despite India choosing to bat, recent history in Dubai offers encouragement to chasing teams. Out of seven matches played here in the tournament, five have been won by the team batting second. The average first-innings score is 140, with pacers taking 58% of the wickets.
The pitch continues to be slow and dry, favouring bowlers who vary their pace. With temperatures soaring, expect spinners and cutters to play a significant role in the middle overs.
Spotlight players: Samson vs Mustafizur
All eyes will be on Sanju Samson, who has been slotted into India’s middle order. With limited game time and the challenge of facing older balls on slow pitches, his performance will be closely watched.
On the Bangladesh side, Mustafizur Rahman will be key. His subtle variations were instrumental in their win against Sri Lanka (4-0-20-3), and he remains a potent threat, especially under lights.
Team news and playing XIs
India are expected to field an unchanged XI, sticking with their winning combination. Samson continues in the middle order, while the pace attack is led by Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya.
Bangladesh have one possible change in mind, with Tanzim Hasan likely to replace Shoriful Islam, who struggled against Sri Lanka. Captain Litton Das, who had a minor back issue, has been declared fit to play.
India (Playing XI):
Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (capt), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy
Bangladesh (Probable XI):
Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan, Litton Das (capt & wk), Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Jaker Ali, Mahedi Hasan, Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman
Form Guide (last five T20Is):
India: W W W W W
Bangladesh: W W L W W
With both teams chasing a spot in the Asia Cup final, and momentum on their side, tonight’s showdown promises drama, pressure, and possibly a defining moment in the tournament.
