Former Indian batsman Robin Uthappa has emphasised that even if India is the clear favourite, complacency should be avoided as the country prepares to play the United Arab Emirates in Dubai in the Asia Cup 2025. “Every opponent must be respected,” Uthappa said.
The Men in Blue have a lot of momentum going into the Asia Cup. The management, led by Suryakumar Yadav, has selected a formidable 15-man team. Conditions in the UAE, meanwhile, are anticipated to be difficult. India will be put to the test as they open their campaign against the UAE, which has improved as a result of the ILT20’s exposure. According to Uthappa, India’s greatest threat may not come from their enemies but rather from inside.
“I would make sure they treat every game with respect because I believe complacency is dangerous. Because the players are of such high calibre, you may occasionally let your foot off the pedal and think, “Listen, we’ll dominate, so you can relax.” They must keep an eye out for that,” Uthappa told Sony Sports.
Robin Uthappa: Afghanistan can exert pressure
The former batter also emphasised the value of harmony in the Indian team’s locker room. Maintaining a positive attitude will be crucial since some players are vying for berths in the T20 World Cup squad for next year, which might help them perform exceptionally well in this event.
“They must ensure that the team is in excellent health. Two or three additional players in this group might be the main candidates for the World Cup the following year. Therefore, you want everyone to get along, maintain a light atmosphere in the dressing room, and play for one another,” he continued.
This will only be India’s second Twenty20 International match since the Asia Cup in 2016. India chased down the UAE’s 81-run total in just over 10 overs at the time. But Uthappa branded the team a real threat and issued a warning about Afghanistan.
“A team like Afghanistan, where the bowling is really good, can put pressure on them,” he said.
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