The Asia Cup 2025 is just around the corner and defending champions India are gearing up for the challenge. Unlike previous editions, where a preparatory camp was held at home, the BCCI has opted for a different approach this time.
Players have been asked to report directly to Dubai, where the squad will go through an extended preparation phase before opening their campaign.
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When will Team India players reach Dubai?
According to multiple reports, squad members are arriving in batches rather than as a group. Captain Suryakumar Yadav and all-rounder Hardik Pandya have already left, while head coach Gautam Gambhir is expected to land in Dubai on Thursday evening from Mumbai.
🚨Team India head coach, Gautam Gambhir reached Dubai for #AsiaCup2025 @rohitjuglan reports @ThumsUpOfficial pic.twitter.com/QhqlzUlt88
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Newly appointed vice-captain Shubman Gill is set to join from Bengaluru. All players have been instructed to assemble in Dubai by Thursday evening.
SKY in DXB #AsiaCup2025 pic.twitter.com/UH28aLX13h
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What is India's Asia Cup 2025 training schedule?
The team's first collective training session will take place on Friday evening at the ICC Academy in Dubai. The practice is scheduled from 6 pm to 9 pm and will serve as the starting point of India's preparation.
With no camp held in India, these sessions in Dubai will be the only extended practice window before the tournament.
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What is India's full Asia Cup 2025 itinerary?
India will kick off their campaign against hosts UAE, on Wednesday, September 10, in Dubai. Before that, the tournament officially begins on Tuesday, September 9, with Afghanistan facing Hong Kong in Abu Dhabi.
After the opener, India's marquee clash against Pakistan is set for Sunday, September 14 - followed by a group-stage match against Oman on September 19. The playoffs are scheduled to begin on September 20.
India's decision to prepare exclusively in the UAE underlines their focus on the conditions and opposition they will face. The extended sessions are expected to give the squad enough time to fine-tune combinations ahead of a demanding schedule.