The countdown to the Asia Cup 2025 is almost over and India's preparations in Dubai are already drawing attention both on and off the field. With the defending champions set to open their campaign against hosts UAE on September 10, training sessions at the ICC Academy have turned into fan events.
Supporters have been gathering in large numbers with chants and applause echoing through practice days. Beyond the nets, a key storyline continues to build: India's search for the right T20I opening combination.
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Sanju Samson receives fan support in Dubai
Sanju Samson was at the centre of attention during India's latest training session. He was greeted by fans chanting his name as he walked out with teammates.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav added to the mood with a playful introduction - calling him the "local boy from Trivandrum." Samson acknowledged the support by interacting warmly with fans, signing autographs and posing for photos.
😂📸 | Gill’s face when the crowd goes
— CRICKET CULTURE (@CRICCULTURE09) September 7, 2025
“SAAAM-SOOON! SAAAM-SOOON!”
Crowd love hits different when it’s for Sanju 💙👑#SanjuSamson #Gill #IndianCricket #FanLove pic.twitter.com/nl2Iuk96Zz
Sanju Samson vs Shubman Gill in India's T20I opener race
The wicket-keeper batter remains in contention for an opening spot at the top of the order with Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma also in the mix. Samson's T20I record as an opener strengthens his case: 522 runs in 17 innings at an average of 32.63 and a strike rate of 178.77.
With Jitesh Sharma providing another keeping option in the squad, Samson's inclusion in the XI is shaping up as one of the team's big selection calls.
Training sessions in Dubai have been intense with batters like Samson and Abhishek focusing on clearing the ropes during extended hitting drills.
Off the field, the BCCI unveiled India's new Asia Cup jersey through a video montage featuring Suryakumar Yadav, Samson, Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh.
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