The primary selection dilemma lies in whether to include a third spinner or opt for an extra pacer. September conditions in Dubai are usually greener and bouncier, making fast bowlers effective. With Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh automatic picks, the final slot may go to either Varun Chakravarthy, who has impressed since his comeback, or Kuldeep Yadav, despite his mixed fortunes. Axar Patel’s dual role as a spinner and lower-order hitter keeps him a certainty at No. 8.
In batting, Shubman Gill’s return as opener with Abhishek Sharma has shifted plans, effectively leaving Sanju Samson out of the XI. Tilak Varma has owned the No. 3 spot, while skipper Suryakumar Yadav offers flexibility at 3 or 4. Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, and Jitesh Sharma form a powerful, multi-skilled middle order.
For UAE, this is their biggest challenge yet. Facing elite players like Bumrah and Gill provides invaluable exposure. Coach Lalchand Rajput insists his team is ready to fight hard, promising India won’t have an easy outing despite being overwhelming favorites.
