“Do Something New”: Gambhir’s one-line brief sets India’s tone for Asia Cup

India’s build‑up to the Asia Cup in the UAE has begun with a clear message from head coach Gautam Gambhir. In the first full training block in Dubai, the players were told to show something new every time they wear the India shirt. It’s a simple line, but it fits the moment: a fresh captain in Suryakumar Yadav, a young vice‑captain in Shubman Gill, and a short, sharp tournament where small tweaks can decide big games. India face the hosts UAE on September 10, with the high‑voltage meeting against Pakistan on September 14.

A clear message

All‑rounder Shivam Dube summed up the team talk in one sentence: “Whenever you play for the country, you have the opportunity to do something new.” That can mean many things on the field—an extra throw down the stumps, a new slower ball, a brave move against spin in the middle overs. The cue from the coach is to push the ceiling, not just meet the floor. It also hands players ownership: small upgrades, made by many, add up quickly in T20 cricket.

First practice session in Dubai

The training flowed for hours at the ICC Academy. Gill walked in with a smile and timing to match, punching half‑volleys through the covers before Jasprit Bumrah bent one back to beat him—an early taste of the cat‑and‑mouse the team will need under lights. Suryakumar batted alongside Gill as he sharpened rhythm post‑surgery. Ahead of them, Jitesh Sharma, Abhishek Sharma, and Tilak Varma cycled through bats and scenarios, while Abhishek rolled his arm over with left‑arm spin, a leg‑spin variation, and a backspinner for good measure.

Roles, rhythm, and small gains

India’s drills mirrored the roles they want in games: fast starts, smart middle overs, and cool heads at the death. Fielding reps focused on speed to the ball and clean pickups—vital on skiddy outfields in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Bowling coach Morne Morkel watched Dube’s run‑up and release closely, a hint that India may lean on his seam in certain match‑ups. Around them, the group looked settled, with the coach’s one‑liner giving a simple theme to keep coming back to.

Group and dates that matter

India are in Group A with UAE, Pakistan, and Oman. The evening starts should suit their powerplay plans and give the spinners grip when it counts. The path is short: win the first beats, carry the tempo into the Super Four, and keep something “new” ready for the big nights. The tone is set—now it’s about doing, not saying.