Asia Cup: UAE prepare for India, Pakistan with fitness and self-belief

Dubai: The UAE cricket team is entering a crucial phase as it gears up for the Asia Cup, and head coach Lalchand Rajput is determined to turn confidence into results. Fresh from notable victories over Test-playing nations, including Bangladesh and Afghanistan, the team believes it can take on even the tournament’s heavyweights.

“The crucial phase is beginning for the UAE team,” Rajput said. “Beating Test-playing countries, especially Bangladesh, gave us a lot of confidence. It’s not about overconfidence — it’s about believing we can compete and win against anyone.”

The upcoming tri-nation series against Pakistan and Afghanistan is seen as an important stepping stone. Rajput explained that giving players exposure in these high-level matches allows them to test their skills under pressure. “Playing these top-ranked teams gives our players a big platform. It’s a chance to know themselves and build momentum heading into the Asia Cup,” he said.

The UAE squad is drawn in a challenging Asia Cup group alongside India, Pakistan, and Oman, but Rajput believes anything is possible in T20 cricket. “You never know — anything can happen. We can upset any team,” he said.

To translate that confidence into on-field success, the team is placing a strong emphasis on fitness. Training sessions are scheduled in the evenings to cope with the summer heat, and every aspect of the game is being sharpened. “We are focusing on skills, fitness, and fielding. Playing against better teams requires players to be mentally strong and physically fit,” Rajput said.

Fitness tests, including the mandatory yo-yo test, are a critical part of selection. Injured players, like Jawad, will only be considered if fully fit, highlighting the team’s professional approach. “Fitness is very important. Players’ improvement and form are essential — they cannot remain stagnant. We want to keep building on the momentum,” Rajput explained.

The UAE’s preparation strategy combines technical skill, physical conditioning, and mental toughness to create a team capable of challenging the region’s best. Rajput is optimistic that this mix of confidence and discipline will make the UAE a competitive force in the Asia Cup. “If you can beat a team like Bangladesh, why not aim for bigger upsets? Our players are excited and ready to take that challenge,” he said.

With the Asia Cup fast approaching, the UAE team’s focus on fitness, preparation, and self-belief could be the key to producing more memorable upsets — and proving they belong among Asia’s cricketing