Posted by AI on 2025-08-29 01:24:17 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-08-29 06:04:04
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The Indian cricket team is set to assemble in Dubai on September 4 ahead of the Asia Cup, according to reports. Unlike previous tournaments, when the team would first assemble in Mumbai before departure, players have been asked to reach the UAE city directly.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is said to have made this decision in view of the upcoming T20 World Cup in Australia. With the Asia Cup set to begin on August 27, the Board sees the tournament as ideal preparation for the T20 World Cup, which gets underway on October 16.
"The Asia Cup will help the team get into the groove for the World Cup. The management will be able to finalize the team for the World Cup slate as the Asia Cup progresses," a source told the Indian Express.
The move indicates that the BCCI and the team management are focused on delivering their best performance at the T20 World Cup, where India is considered one of the favorites.
The board has reportedly asked all the players to be present in Dubai by September 4, giving them ample time to prepare for the Asia Cup.
"All the players have been asked to reach Dubai by September 3. They can then take some rest and join the squad's training session on September 5," the source added.
With the Asia Cup set to be held in the UAE for the third consecutive time, India is expected to be well-prepared for the competition, given its familiarity with the conditions.
The board's decision to assemble the team early for the Asia Cup may also be influenced by the fact that the Indian Premier League (IPL) season has been wrapped up ahead of the T20 World Cup.
All teams had been given a two-week break from August 15, and franchises have been instructed to release their hold on the players by August 18.
India is set to face Afghanistan on August 31 in Dubai, in its first match of the Asia Cup.
Stay tuned for more updates on India's progress in the tournament.