Dubai, Sep 6: India captain Suryakumar Yadav expressed confidence in his side’s prospects at the upcoming Men’s T20 Asia Cup, saying the players’ skill and commitment give him assurance as the team prepares to defend its continental crown.
With India set to open their Group A campaign against hosts UAE on September 10, followed by a marquee clash against Pakistan on September 14 and a face-off with Oman on September 19, Suryakumar underlined the strength of the squad at his disposal.
“To have such a brilliant bunch around with unbelievable skill sets, I always have a smile on my face when I see those boys on the ground,” Suryakumar said in a video released by the BCCI. “The way they put their body on the line, that’s what I want from them. And they just enjoy being out there.”
Vice-captain Shubman Gill reinforced the captain’s sentiments, calling the side “a great group” and praising their brand of T20 cricket as “entertaining and terrific.”
Jasprit Bumrah, who returns to the shortest format after playing a crucial role in India’s 2024 T20 World Cup triumph, described the mood as upbeat.
“It feels really good to be back. There’s a lot of young energy in the team, and I’m looking forward to exciting times ahead,” the pacer said.
Senior all-rounder Hardik Pandya, meanwhile, highlighted the balance between rejuvenation and preparation. “I really took time for my son, spent a lot of family time, and then started my training early.
This feels like a very good bunch of people to be around and a very exciting time,” he remarked.
Left-arm quick Arshdeep Singh and all-rounder Shivam Dube both spoke about the vibrant atmosphere in the dressing room, with Dube echoing head coach Gautam Gambhir’s message: “Whenever you play for your country, you get an opportunity to do something new.”
As India aim for a record-extending ninth Asia Cup title, their captain’s words capture the essence of a side blending youth and experience, united by confidence, camaraderie, and the hunger to deliver on the big stage. (Agencies)
