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Jasprit Bumrah enters the Asia Cup final against Pakistan under unusual scrutiny. Tasked with an exceptionally demanding role of bowling three overs in the powerplay, he has looked uncharacteristically off-colour, even losing his trademark calm. With five wickets in four games, India will hope their “smiling assassin” rediscovers his spark and delivers when it matters most.

India had an injury scare as Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma left the field during the Sri Lanka clash, but bowling coach Morne Morkel confirmed both suffered only cramps. While Hardik will be reassessed before the Pakistan final, Abhishek is fit. Morkel admitted India haven’t played a “complete game” yet and stressed sharper execution across departments.

Defending champions India are gearing up for the Asia Cup 2025 with intense practice sessions in Dubai, emphasising all-rounder development and fine-tuning bowling combinations. Bowling coach Morne Morkel highlights the team's focus on intensity and execution, respecting Pakistan while prioritising their own game. The team aims to leave no stone unturned in their preparation for the tournament.

During a net session in Birmingham, a video surfaced showing Indian pacers Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep playfully wrestling with bowling coach Morne Morkel. Arshdeep explained that Morkel initiated the wrestling as a fun way to conclude practice sessions. Despite the lighthearted moment, Team India is currently trailing 0-1 in the five-match series after a loss at Headingley.

Jasprit Bumrah displayed intense focus during practice at Edgbaston, bowling with pace and accuracy alongside Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna. Kuldeep Yadav is also working diligently on both his bowling and batting, potentially becoming a key option for the second Test given Birmingham's dry conditions. The team will now take a break before regrouping, with Bumrah's availability remaining uncertain.