Suryakumar Reveals India’s Gameplan in Asia Cup Clash

Suryakumar Yadav had a birthday to remember as India defeated Pakistan by seven wickets in the India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 clash on September 14. But the post-match chatter was less about celebrations and more about India’s sharp planning. Questions flew about the handshake controversy, but the Indian skipper kept his focus on cricket, opening a window into how the team is preparing for the bigger Asia Cup battles ahead.

On the pitch, Suryakumar played a calm unbeaten 47, ensuring India crossed the modest target after Abhishek Sharma’s bright start. Yet he was quick to push the credit elsewhere. The big real impact in the match came from India’s spin attack. Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel and Varun Chakravarthy took 6 wickets, 2 each, while conceding only 60 runs. Calling it a “birthday gift,” Suryakumar Yadav praised the trio for the hard work they put in at training and their ability to stick to the plans.

He explained that preparation is what keeps India’s game smooth. Once the players step on the field, everything feels “on autopilot” because the team has already studied each opponent and worked out clear scenarios. Sometimes those plans even go against common match-up logic. For example, Axar bowled to Fakhar Zaman despite the left-hander being considered a tougher matchup for a left-arm spinner.

India wanted to dominate in the powerplay. Normally, Bumrah bowls two overs with the new ball, but against Pakistan he was given 3 overs in the powerplay. Suryakumar said this was a planned attacking move to grab early wickets. They wanted to attack upfront and grab early wickets so spinners and all-rounders like Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube had more freedom to control the game later.

Personally, the innings was a relief for Suryakumar. He admitted that pressure never goes away, but insisted India’s flexible batting order allows everyone to contribute in some way. “If you are ready to bat anywhere, the team becomes more dangerous,” he said.

India’s combination of spin control, Bumrah’s early aggression and batting adaptability has given them a strong template. Heading into the Super 4s, the side looks well-drilled and confident of handling whatever challenge comes next.