Asia Cup 2025: Kuldeep Yadav’s 4-Wicket Magic Powers India to 8-Wicket Win Over UAE
Asia Cup 2025 thriller: Kuldeep Yadav’s stunning 4-wicket spell dismantled UAE, paving the way for India’s dominant 8-wicket victory. Relive the highlights of India vs UAE clash
The Asia Cup 2025 witnessed another chapter of Indian dominance as the Men in Blue outclassed the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in a one-sided contest. The match, held under bright floodlights and high expectations, turned into a showcase of spin mastery as Kuldeep Yadav produced a magical spell that dismantled the UAE batting lineup. His 4-wicket haul not only broke the backbone of the opposition but also paved the way for a resounding 8-wicket victory for India.
This clash, though not billed as a heavyweight contest, carried significance in India’s campaign, as every game in the Asia Cup is a stepping stone towards ultimate regional supremacy. For UAE, it was an opportunity to prove their rising stature in world cricket against the giants of the game. However, Kuldeep’s brilliance ensured that India never allowed the match to drift out of their hands.
Kuldeep Yadav, the left-arm wrist spinner, has always been known for his ability to outfox batters with his sharp googlies, deceptive flight, and clever variations. Against UAE, he was at his absolute best, spinning webs around their batters. His spell not only yielded wickets but also choked runs, leaving UAE in complete disarray.
Kuldeep’s final figures – 4 wickets for just 19 runs in his 8-over spell – highlighted why he remains one of India’s most valuable assets in limited-overs cricket. Each of his dismissals showcased a different skill:
A classical leg-break that bowled the opener through the gate.
A perfectly disguised googly that trapped the middle-order batter LBW.
A quicker one that rushed onto the bat and took an edge to slip.
And finally, a flighted delivery that lured the set batter into a false stroke.
The variety, precision, and confidence with which Kuldeep bowled made it evident that he has truly matured into a match-winner for India. His spell ensured UAE could never build partnerships or accelerate at crucial junctures.
Opting to bat first, UAE’s intent was to put up a competitive total that could at least test the Indian batting lineup. Their openers started cautiously, managing a few boundaries against India’s pacers. However, once spin was introduced, the script changed dramatically.
Kuldeep, supported well by Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja, turned the screws on UAE. From 45/1, UAE slipped to 92/7 in the span of just 12 overs, courtesy of India’s relentless spin attack.
The only highlight for UAE was a gritty knock by their captain, who top-scored with 32 runs, attempting to resist Kuldeep’s magic. But with little support from the other end, UAE were bowled out for 136 in 34 overs, a total far below par in modern-day ODI cricket.
Chasing a modest target of 137, India approached the chase with composure. Openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill started cautiously, respecting the new ball before gradually shifting gears. Gill looked fluent with his cover drives and square cuts, while Rohit played the anchor role, guiding the innings with patience.
The duo put on a 70-run stand for the first wicket, virtually sealing the match in India’s favor within the first 15 overs. Even after Rohit departed for 35, Gill continued to attack, ensuring there was no pressure on the middle order.
Virat Kohli, stepping in at No. 3, looked determined to finish things off in style. He rotated the strike well, played risk-free cricket, and showed glimpses of his trademark aggression with a few boundaries. Gill, who scored a fluent 52 before being dismissed, ensured India were well ahead in the chase.
Kohli and Shreyas Iyer then wrapped up the innings, guiding India to victory in just 24.3 overs. Kohli’s unbeaten 36 was a reminder of his unmatched consistency and hunger for runs, no matter the opposition.
Kuldeep Yadav’s Match-Winning Spell – His 4/19 was the standout performance and once again highlighted India’s strength in spin bowling.
UAE’s Struggles Against Quality Spin – Despite showing glimpses of fight, their inability to read wrist spin proved to be their downfall.
India’s Top-Order Composure – Gill and Rohit’s partnership was enough to take the game away from UAE.
Bench Strength on Display – India rested a couple of key players, but the team’s balance and execution did not suffer, showcasing depth in the squad.
This victory further cements India’s position as favorites in the Asia Cup 2025. With a squad full of match-winners, India are looking sharp, disciplined, and hungry. The bowling attack, especially the spin department, appears formidable, while the batting unit continues to remain solid with world-class players in form.
For UAE, the defeat was a lesson in handling pressure and facing top-quality bowling attacks. While they may not have managed to challenge India in this clash, their participation itself is valuable exposure that will aid their growth in international cricket.
Former cricketers praised Kuldeep Yadav’s control and variations, calling his spell “a masterclass in wrist spin bowling.”
Fans on social media celebrated India’s win, with many highlighting the ease with which India chased down the target.
Analysts noted that India’s ability to win matches without breaking a sweat reflects their preparation and balance ahead of bigger clashes in the tournament.
