The Asia Cup India vs UAE Rising Stars 2025 could not have asked for a brighter, louder, and more explosive opening than what unfolded in Doha on a warm evening. India A walked into the tournament with young shoulders but old confidence, and by the time their innings ended, one thing was certain: these youngsters hadn’t come here merely to participate; they came to claim attention.

At the centre of everything was one name—Vaibhav Suryavanshi.

With a breathtaking 144 off just 42 balls, the young left-hander produced a piece of batting brilliance that left players, fans, and commentators equally stunned. India piled up a massive 297/4 in their 20 overs, and as the UAE began their reply, the scoreboard pressure became visible early. Five wickets down during a daunting chase, the UAE’s task already looks almost out of reach.

A Tournament Built for New Stars Asia Cup

The Asia Cup Rising Stars has always been a platform for promising cricketers from Asian nations to showcase their craft before the world’s eyes. For India A—a team filled with budding talent and guided by the explosive wicketkeeper-batsman Jitesh Sharma—this tournament is a crucial opportunity.

Not every young player gets a chance to represent his country in a multi-team international event. Not every player can handle the weight of expectations. But sometimes, a player seizes such opportunities with both hands and rewrites the narrative.

The Toss That Set the Tone

Jitesh Sharma’s decision to bat first was strategic and confident. The Doha pitch, with its even bounce and small boundaries, often favours batsmen under lights. But even the most optimistic Indian fans wouldn’t have predicted the storm that was about to hit the stadium.

Enter Vaibhav Suryavanshi: 42 Balls of Absolute Madness

Some innings are powerful. Some innings are clever. And then there are innings like Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s—innings that feel almost unreal.

His 144 runs came in a mere 42 deliveries, decorated with:

• 11 fours
• 15 sixes
• A 17-ball fifty
• A 32-ball century

There were moments when the audience forgot to breathe. Moments when UAE’s bowlers didn’t know where to bowl, what to change, or how to react. Moments when even the commentators laughed in disbelief.

The Art Within the Assault

Suryavanshi’s batting wasn’t just power-hitting—it was controlled aggression. Each shot came from a deep understanding of the field, timing, and technique:

• He lofted over covers with grace.
• He rocked back into his crease to pull with authority.
• He used his wrists to flick the ball behind square.
• And when spinners came on, he met them with sweeps, reverse sweeps, and calculated risks.

He played like someone who had nothing to lose and everything to gain. A young batter with a fearlessness that belongs to today’s generation, and a sense of responsibility that belongs to the greats.

A Partnership That Changed the Game

While Suryavanshi was the dominant force, he wasn’t alone. Naman Dhir, with his composed 34, formed a crucial partnership of 163 runs off 57 balls with him. Dhir played the anchor—rotating strike, absorbing pressure, and giving Suryavanshi the freedom to unleash.

This partnership was the backbone of India A’s innings. It turned a promising start into something colossal.

Jitesh Sharma’s Captain’s Knock

After Suryavanshi’s dismissal, many teams tend to slow down, but Jitesh Sharma ensured that didn’t happen. His quickfire fifty added the final flourish India A needed.

Jitesh didn’t waste time settling in. He walked in with a purpose—to convert a huge total into a nearly unachievable one. And he succeeded.

His intent, clarity, and explosive finishing pushed India A to 297, a score that looked imposing even for seasoned international sides.

Asia Cup UAE Bowlers Under the Pump

Credit must be given to the UAE for stepping into such a high-pressure environment, but this was undeniably a tough outing for them.

Their biggest struggles included:

• Inability to find the right lengths
• Lack of variation in pace
• Predictable lines
• Nervous execution
• Fielding lapses under pressure

T20 cricket can be merciless, especially when a batter like Suryavanshi is in full flow. One misjudged ball is enough for the tide to turn, and the UAE suffered several such moments.

This wasn’t merely about talent—it was about handling pressure, and they fell short today.

The Chase: A Mountain Too Tall

Chasing 298 in T20 cricket is more than just a task—it’s a dream one rarely achieves. UAE’s innings started with visible nerves. They needed a flying start, but instead, they kept losing wickets.

India A’s bowlers executed their plans perfectly:

• Tight lines
• Smart variations
• Aggressive fields
• Relentless pursuit of wickets

UAE’s scoreboard kept slipping, and the required run rate kept rising. With five wickets down, they’re not just chasing runs; they’re chasing survival.

Their objective now might shift from winning to fighting for pride.

In the End: A Start That Promises a Thrilling Tournament

India A could not have scripted a more powerful opening. With almost 300 runs on the board, a blockbuster century, and a strong hold over the opposition’s chase, they have sent a message to every team in the tournament.

This match was more than just entertainment—it was a glimpse of the future of cricket. A future where young stars like Vaibhav Suryavanshi redefine what’s possible in 20 overs.

If this is how India A begins their campaign, the rest of the tournament will be nothing short of exhilarating.