The Indian cricket team is set to play against Oman in the final group stage of the Asia Cup 2025. The match is scheduled to take place at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. India has already confirmed its place in the Super-4 stage, making this match a practice game. Oman has been eliminated from the Super-4 race. The circumstances suggest significant changes in India’s playing 11, indicated by the optional practice session. In the optional practice session before the final group stage match, only nine players from the squad were involved. Players were focused on finalizing their preparation. However, key players like Jasprit Bumrah, Shivam Dube, Sanju Samson, Shubman Gill, and Abhishek Sharma did not attend. The absence of Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma was particularly noticeable, as they usually participate in optional practice sessions. Harshit Rana, a young fast bowler, caught everyone’s attention during the optional practice session. He put in effort in both bowling and batting. His performance suggests he may be included in the playing 11 against Oman. The tournament could be a major opportunity for him, given he hasn’t played any matches yet. Fast bowler Arshdeep Singh also focused on improving his bowling. Arshdeep Singh, India’s most successful T20I bowler, is yet to play in this tournament. With Jasprit Bumrah possibly rested against Oman, Arshdeep Singh may be the first choice. Batsmen Rinku Singh and Jitesh Sharma also practiced extensively.
