TimesofIndia.com in DUBAI: Team India has sealed a place in the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup 2025 after recording comprehensive wins over UAE cricket team and arch-rivals Pakistan. India will now face Oman in their final group-stage match before meeting Pakistan once again on Sunday in their Super Four clash.The group-stage clash between India and Pakistan was overshadowed by a handshake controversy, which became the biggest talking point of the tournament. From India’s handshake snub to Pakistan’s threat to pull out of the Asia Cup, their demand for the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft, and even the delayed start of Pakistan’s match against UAE — the competition has had it all so far.However, India spinner Kuldeep Yadav isn’t letting the noise around the controversy affect him ahead of the high-octane clash against Pakistan.“When you step onto the field, it’s just a batter in front of you. I have always approached it this way against Pakistan,” Kuldeep said at the pre-match press conference ahead of the game against Oman.“My rhythm is set now. I’m in good rhythm. Initially, I was facing some difficulty. The wicket is perfect for spinners — even better than the Champions Trophy wickets,” he added.India will take on Oman on Friday in Abu Dhabi.Kuldeep has featured in both of India’s matches so far in the competition after warming the bench during the five-match Test series against England, which ended in a 2-2 draw. He has picked up seven wickets in the two Asia Cup games he has played.
“”Challenges are always there when you play after a long break. Playing continuously helps you stay in rhythm, but it’s tough when you don’t get enough game time. Still, it was a great learning experience. In the Duleep Trophy, I went wicketless, but it was valuable for me to bowl so many overs,” the spinner said.When asked about India’s approach of opting for extra batting depth on the England tour and his communication with head coach Gautam Gambhir, Kuldeep replied: “Clear communication tha (There was clear communication). In four matches, I was close to playing, but the team needed batting depth. The message was very clear — it wasn’t about my skills or batting, it was just about the team combination. As a bowler, my primary job is to take wickets, and I’m also working on improving my batting.“
