Team India’s unbeaten run in the Asia Cup 2025 continues to make headlines, and the group-stage clash against Oman has added fresh drama. At the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, Abhishek Sharma’s explosive batting and a surprise shuffle in the batting lineup have become the biggest talking points of the match. (Abhishek Sharma)
Abhishek Sharma Ignites India’s Start
Opening with confidence, Abhishek Sharma wasted no time in taking on the Omani bowlers. His fearless strokes, including back-to-back boundaries in the early overs, helped India recover quickly after Shubman Gill’s early dismissal. His attacking intent not only steadied India’s start but also sent a clear message of dominance, lifting the run rate in the powerplay.
A Surprise Promotion for Sanju Samson
In a notable tactical experiment, Sanju Samson walked in at No. 3, instead of his usual role lower down the order. This move by the team management is widely seen as a chance to give Samson more time at the crease ahead of the Super Four stage. The reshuffle underlines India’s approach of testing batting flexibility while providing valuable exposure to players in pressure situations.
Playing XI Changes — Bumrah Rested
India also made two changes to the side for this contest. Jasprit Bumrah and spinner Varun Chakravarthy were given a rest, while young quicks Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana were drafted in. The decision reflects India’s workload management strategy, ensuring key players stay fresh for tougher upcoming games, including the highly anticipated clash against Pakistan.
Why the Adjustments Matter
- Player readiness: Promoting Samson prepares him for bigger roles later in the tournament.
- Squad rotation: Resting Bumrah helps manage fatigue before knockout matches.
- Strategic rehearsal: Testing different combinations against Oman offers India the chance to fine-tune plans ahead of stronger opponents.
The Bigger Picture
With Abhishek Sharma in commanding form and India experimenting with their batting order, this match is more than just about securing a third straight win. It’s about shaping the team for high-pressure battles that lie ahead in the Super Fours. The clash against Oman, therefore, is not only about points on the table but also about India’s preparation to face arch-rival Pakistan with renewed confidence.