As the Asia Cup 2025 approaches, the Indian cricket team faces potential setbacks with several key players possibly missing the tournament due to a combination of injury concerns, workload management, and selection considerations. The tournament is scheduled to begin on September 9 in the UAE.
Rishabh Pant is expected to miss the Asia Cup 2025 after fracturing his foot during the fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England. The incident occurred when a yorker struck Pant on the foot, and scans revealed a fracture that will sideline him for at least six weeks. Although surgery is not required, his absence is a significant blow, especially considering his role as a wicketkeeper-batter in the middle order. Sanju Samson is expected to take over the wicket-keeping duties in Pant's absence.
Jasprit Bumrah, a vital cog in India's bowling attack, might be rested to manage his workload. With several major assignments on the horizon, the team management is keen on keeping him fresh and preventing potential injuries. If Bumrah is rested, Arshdeep Singh is likely to spearhead the pace attack. While Bumrah's absence would be a setback, it presents an opportunity for other bowlers to step up.
KL Rahul's participation is also uncertain. Rahul has not played a T20I since the 2022 World Cup, and his prolonged absence from the format raises questions about his selection. While he has expressed his desire to return to the T20I squad, it remains to be seen whether he will be included in the Asia Cup squad.
Ishan Kishan is another player whose participation is doubtful due to a knee injury sustained during the England tour.
Despite these potential absences, there's positive news regarding Suryakumar Yadav, who is expected to lead India in the Asia Cup 2025. Yadav has commenced batting practice at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru after recovering from surgery for a sports hernia in June. His return and leadership are a major boost for the team.
Several players are in contention for selection, including Abhishek Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, and Shreyas Iyer. The Asia Cup 2025 is crucial for India as it provides an opportunity to prepare for the 2026 T20 World Cup. The team will aim to strike a balance between experimenting with new combinations and maintaining winning momentum. The Asia Cup 2025 will be held in the UAE, with matches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. India is placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, UAE, and Oman. India will begin their campaign on September 10 against the UAE.
