India return to the UAE this September for the Asia Cup 2025 - just months after lifting the Champions Trophy at the same venue. But unlike the slower, worn-out pitches that marked the earlier tournament, players can expect a very different challenge this time.
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Fresh surfaces, high humidity, and the inevitable dew factor are all set to influence strategies. With India scheduled to play most of their matches in Dubai, the question of whether to bat first or chase could play a big role in their title defence.
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Asia Cup 2025 pitches in Dubai set to favour pacers early with grass cover
According to former Dubai curator Tony Hemming, the pitches are unlikely to behave the way they have over the past two years. He told The Indian Express that recent grass cover should provide better pace and bounce with more carry to the keeper.
That means seamers could find early assistance, while spinners may enjoy low bounce in Dubai's conditions.
"I believe that the pitches will not behave as they have for the last two years. Now, looking at the ground in the last two weeks, they have got a grass cover and the pitches should have better carry to the keeper and should have better pace onto the bat," said Hemming.
Former India all-rounder Robin Singh, who has coached the UAE in the past, also noted that starting with the ball could be the safer choice. He pointed out that fresh grass and scorching heat make early overs crucial for seamers while spinners are more effective in the first half before dew sets in.
India's strategy for Asia Cup 2025
Robin advised India to tweak their balance. He suggested a mix of three seamers and three spinners to adapt across conditions. Pacers should rely more on cross-seam and hard-length deliveries rather than yorkers - which become harder to execute in wet conditions.
With India eyeing back-to-back continental titles, conditions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi will test their flexibility. The toss will not guarantee a win but reading the conditions right - especially the dew factor, could make the difference in tight matches.
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