Speculation around a rift between India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir and star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has dominated headlines ahead of the Men in Blue’s final group-stage clash against Oman on September 19 in Dubai. While India has already sealed their place in the Super Four of the Asia Cup 2025 with convincing wins over Pakistan and the UAE, the team dynamics have come under the spotlight after an intense exchange between Gambhir and Pandya during training.
During Wednesday’s net session in Dubai, the two were spotted in what appeared to be a long and animated discussion on the sidelines. Eyewitnesses noted that the conversation was anything but casual, with Pandya making animated gestures as he spoke to Gambhir.
Known for his aggressive approach, Pandya’s body language suggested he was making a strong point, leading to speculation that India might be considering a tactical adjustment ahead of their final group game. Adding to the intrigue, Gambhir was also seen closely monitoring Jasprit Bumrah’s practice session.
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Despite India having already qualified, this signalled that the management is unlikely to rest their strike bowler for the clash against Oman. The approach reflects Gambhir’s no-nonsense style of leadership, ensuring India maintains its winning momentum heading into the Super Four stage.
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Meanwhile, the Asia Cup 2025 points table has started taking shape with India emerging as the standout team in Group A. With a staggering net run rate of +10.483, they remain unbeaten and have looked clinical in all departments. Pakistan, after a week of controversies but also a crucial win over the UAE, joined India in the Super Four from the same group. The UAE and Oman, on the other hand, have been knocked out.
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Group B is where the real drama lies. Sri Lanka and Bangladesh currently lead with 4 points each, but Afghanistan remain alive thanks to their superior net run rate despite having just 2 points. Their upcoming clash against Sri Lanka on September 18 could decide the fate of the group. If Sri Lanka win, they top the group and push Bangladesh into second place. However, if Afghanistan manage an upset, all three teams will be tied on four points. In that scenario, Afghanistan’s stronger net run rate could propel them into the Super Four, potentially knocking Sri Lanka out.
With Hong Kong, Oman, and UAE already eliminated, the focus now shifts to whether Gambhir and Pandya can iron out their differences in time. For India, unity will be just as crucial as skill if they aim to dominate the latter stages of Asia Cup 2025.
