skywritg.com – Today’s Pulse & News Briefings

From a fruit juice seller’s cart outside Mohali Stadium to Gujarat Titans’ dugout, Avinash Kumar’s journey is extraordinary. Once a failed cricketer, he became Shubman Gill’s trusted side-arm thrower, shaping his batting and standing by him in tough phases. In return, Gill stood by Avinash and his family.

Sanju Samson has secured his place in India's playing XI for their Asia Cup clash in Dubai, despite speculation surrounding Shubman Gill's return and Tilak Varma's presence. India has strategically bolstered their batting lineup by including Shivam Dube and surprisingly excluding Arshdeep Singh. India won the toss and chose to bowl first.

India, fresh off their T20 World Cup victory, are set to begin their Asia Cup 2025 campaign against hosts United Arab Emirates at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Led by Suryakumar Yadav, the defending champions aim for a record-extending ninth title. India holds a strong record with 24 wins since last year's global tournament.

Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma will most likely walk out to open in India's first match in the Asia Cup on Wednesday. It won’t be the first time the duo will open — they have been doing this since their U-14 days. Beyond being opening partners, they have been childhood friends and understand each other’s game as well.

Shubman Gill's inclusion as vice-captain adds complexity to India's T20I top-order selection for the Asia Cup. While Gill's Test success highlights his leadership potential, Sanju Samson's impressive opening form, including three centuries and a high strike rate, makes him a strong contender. Ravi Shastri advocates for Samson to continue opening, emphasizing his game-changing ability at the top.

Ravi Shastri advocates for wrist-spinners Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav in India's Asia Cup XI, emphasizing Kuldeep's peak form. He believes Surya Kumar Yadav is a capable T20 captain, leading a fearless and talented team. Shastri acknowledges Jasprit Bumrah's brilliance but cautions against complacency, highlighting the need for spinners to perform well.

Suryakumar Yadav's playful banter with Sanju Samson during Team India's Asia Cup 2025 practice in Dubai injected humor into the camp. Samson, vying for an opening spot, received strong fan support, while the team intensely trained for the tournament. The BCCI unveiled the official jersey, emphasising the team's determination to defend their title as Asian champions.

Arshdeep Singh is on the cusp of becoming the first Indian bowler to claim 100 T20I wickets at the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 in Dubai. India's campaign starts on September 10 against the UAE, followed by a high-stakes match against Pakistan on September 14. The squad includes Surya Kumar Yadav as captain and Shubman Gill as vice-captain.

Virender Sehwag revealed the emotional toll of India's losses to Pakistan, admitting they sometimes disrupted his focus. Despite averaging 50.65 against them, the frequent defeats affected him deeply. He fondly recalled his masterful 119 against Pakistan in 2008 while fasting, showcasing his determination. India is set to face Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

India's Asia Cup 2025 preparations intensified in Dubai, with top-order batsmen like Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, and Suryakumar Yadav focusing on aggressive, aerial hitting during practice. Abhishek Sharma stood out with his effortless six-hitting. Bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh kept the intensity high, while coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav were seen in tactical discussions.

Team India has commenced preparations for their Asia Cup 2025 title defense with a rigorous practice session in Dubai, fueled by coach Gautam Gambhir's call to seize every opportunity. Key players like Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill participated in extensive drills, emphasising the team's focus on acclimatisation and skill enhancement.

India's cricket team concluded their Dubai practice, gearing up to defend their Asia Cup title. Key players like Gill and Yadav participated in batting sessions, while Bumrah rejoined after a break. The team, under coach Gambhir, is set to face UAE, Pakistan, and Oman in Group A, aiming to continue their Asia Cup dominance.

Defending champions India are set to commence their Asia Cup 2025 preparations with practice sessions in Dubai, foregoing a preparatory camp in India. Players will assemble individually, with captain Suryakumar Yadav and coach Gautam Gambhir already en route. India's campaign begins against UAE on September 10, followed by a highly anticipated match against Pakistan on September 14.

Mohammad Kaif advocates for Sanju Samson to bat at No.3 in the Asia Cup 2025, ahead of Tilak Varma. Citing Samson's experience and form, Kaif believes he's ideal against Afghanistan, especially facing Rashid Khan. He highlighted Samson's IPL record, South African centuries, and Kerala Cricket League performance.

Team India will participate in the Asia Cup 2025 without a lead sponsor after Dream11 ended its contract due to new online gaming regulations. Consequently, the 'India' logo on the team's jerseys will be more prominent.

Shubman Gill and Harbhajan Singh have voiced their concerns and support for Punjab as devastating floods impact over 2.56 lakh people across 12 districts. The floods have caused widespread displacement and damage, prompting the state government to establish relief camps and mobilise multiple agencies for rescue operations. Support and resources are being directed to aid affected communities.

Rohit Sharma, after completing fitness tests with Jasprit Bumrah and Shubman Gill, engaged in playful banter with Mumbai airport paparazzi. Sharma last played competitive cricket in the IPL 2025 Qualifier 2, having since retired from Test cricket. He's gearing up for the limited-overs tour of Australia, while Gill and Bumrah prepare for the Asia Cup 2025.

As India gears up for the 2026 T20 World Cup, Suresh Raina suggests a bold opening pair. With Kohli and Sharma potentially out, Raina backs youngsters like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Abhishek Sharma to lead the charge. He also mentioned Priyansh Arya, who impressed in his debut IPL season, could be a surprise package.

Arshdeep Singh, after an unfortunate injury during the England Test series, showcased his readiness in the Duleep Trophy quarterfinal. Despite not playing, he utilised his time in England to hone his skills, focusing on strength and conditioning.

Shubman Gill and other senior Indian cricketers are at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence. They are undergoing fitness analysis. Rohit Sharma is preparing for the Australia tour. Speculation suggests Rohit and Virat Kohli may play in the India A series against Australia A. This series will provide valuable match practice. Rohit last played competitively in June.