'We're ready as a team' - Suryakumar Yadav eyes strong start in the Asia Cup

Published - 09 Sept 2025, 17:01 IST | Updated - 09 Sept 2025, 17:56 IST

Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav acknowledged that competing in the T20I format requires being fully prepared for the unique demands of that style of cricket. He will lead the Indian team in a major tournament for the first time since taking over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma after the 2024 T20 World Cup.

The Mumbai-born cricketer expressed confidence in the team’s preparations, noting that while they have not played T20Is for some time, they have had valuable practice and bonding as a unit. India will begin their campaign in the continental tournament against hosts United Arab Emirates (UAE) on September 10.

“If you come to play this format, you know how to keep your preparations going. If your preparation is good, then you are very confident when you take on the field. And we have been having some good amount of preparation recently, and I know that as a team we haven't played T20s in a long time, but we were here [in Dubai, the venue for India vs UAE] early 3-4 days back. We had some good time as a team together. And we are really looking forward to this tournament,” said Suryakumar in the press conference.

🗣️ We've had good preparations and time together as a team#TeamIndia captain Suryakumar Yadav talks about the importance of preparations ahead of #AsiaCup2025 @surya_14kumar

Suryakumar backs same winning formula for Asia Cup 2025

India will face arch-rivals Pakistan on September 14, marking their first encounter since the Pahalgam attack and the subsequent Operation Sindoor. When asked about managing aggression on the field, the captains of both nations emphasized the importance of channelling intensity in a constructive and disciplined manner.

"Aggression is always there when we take the field. Without it, I don't think you can play this sport. I'm very excited to take the field tomorrow. You don't need to say anything to any player-everyone is different and knows how to bring their best,” said Suryakumar.

"If someone wants to be aggressive on the field, they're more than welcome. Fast bowlers, in particular, thrive on aggression-you can't stop them, that's what fuels them. As long as it stays within the spirit of the game, there are no restrictions from my side," said Pakistan skipper, Salman Ali Agha.