For the first time in 16 internationals across formats, India finally won a toss, and skipper Suryakumar Yadav had no hesitation in opting to field against the United Arab Emirates in Dubai. What followed was a ruthless display of bowling that left the hosts bundled out for just 57 runs in 13.1 overs. Right from the start, India’s attack showed no mercy. Jasprit Bumrah struck early with pace and precision, before the spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel tightened the screws. Kuldeep was the standout, weaving his magic to claim four wickets. Varun Chakaravarthy chipped in with one, while Dube, using his variations as a medium pacer, cleaned up the lower order with three crucial strikes. The innings also saw a bizarre incident involving Junaid Siddique. Facing Dube, he backed away mid-delivery to complain about a towel slipping from the bowler’s waist. Distracted, he stepped out of his crease, and Sanju Samson, ever alert behind the stumps, underarmed a direct hit.Watch the video. The third umpire ruled Siddique out, but in an admirable gesture, Suryakumar Yadav withdrew the appeal, recognising the unusual circumstances. However, Siddique’s reprieve was short-lived. One ball later, he miscued a shot and SKY himself ran back from mid-wicket to complete a sharp catch.
Poll
What did you think about Suryakumar Yadav’s decision to withdraw the appeal?
UAE crashed from 47 for 2 to 57 all out in a blink. Alishan Sharafu top-scored with 22, while captain Muhammad Waseem made 19, but no one else reached double figures. It was a dominant performance that showcased India’s bowling depth, Samson’s sharpness, and SKY’s leadership in equal measure.