UAE Coach: Batters Overawed By India’s Big Names, Elite Bowling
Rajput says UAE struggled against Kuldeep and Varun; India won by nine wickets.
UAE head coach Lalchand Rajput attributed his team's humiliating nine-wicket defeat to India in the Asia Cup opener to their batters' unfamiliarity with world-class bowling and intimidation by renowned opponents, highlighting the gulf in experience against the reigning world champions. As India showcased their formidable spin arsenal to dismantle UAE for a paltry 57, the match underscored the challenges associate nations face in high-stakes tournaments, potentially influencing strategies for emerging teams while reinforcing India's depth as favourites. This lopsided encounter could boost India's momentum in the competition, emphasising the need for broader exposure in cricket's global ecosystem to bridge competitive divides.
In a one-sided affair at the Dubai International Stadium, UAE crumbled to 57 all out in just 13.1 overs, succumbing to India's spin-heavy attack. Wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav starred with a mesmerising four-wicket haul, bamboozling the inexperienced lineup with his variations. All-rounder Shivam Dube impressed with economical figures of 3/4, while mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy (1/4), left-armer Axar Patel (1/13), and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah (1/19) contributed effectively, restricting UAE despite minimal turn on the pitch.
India, opting for a spin-dominant XI with only Bumrah as the specialist fast bowler—leaving out Arshdeep Singh—chased the modest target effortlessly in 4.3 overs. Rajput, a former Indian cricketer and coach, candidly admitted post-match, "They never play such kind of bowlers; they were overawed by big names." He noted the game held steady during the powerplay but shifted dramatically once spinners took over, adding that even elite batters struggle against Kuldeep and Varun.
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Praising India's prowess, Rajput remarked, "World champions will crush teams," and highlighted their squad depth, evident in Arshdeep's benching. The performance not only exposed the UAE's limitations but also served as a testament to India's tactical acumen under pressure, setting a high bar for the Asia Cup. As the tournament progresses, such results may prompt calls for more inclusive development programmes to elevate associate cricket, fostering a more balanced international landscape.
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