The Indian cricket team is gearing up for the Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 9 to September 28. As the selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, prepares to announce the squad on August 19, speculations are rife about the team composition.

One of the major talking points is the potential inclusion of Shreyas Iyer in the T20I squad. Iyer, who last played a T20I in December 2023, has reportedly impressed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) with his recent performances, particularly in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Playing for Punjab Kings, Iyer amassed 604 runs in 17 innings at a remarkable strike rate of 175.07. His ability to perform well in slow, spin-friendly conditions in the UAE is also seen as a major advantage.

However, Iyer's inclusion might come at the expense of Shubman Gill. While Gill has been a consistent performer for India across formats, his T20I strike rate has often been a subject of scrutiny. Despite a stellar Test series against England, where he emerged as the highest run-scorer with 754 runs, Gill might find himself out of favor in the T20I format. Some reports suggest that the team management is keen to persist with the opening pair of Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma, furtherdiminishing Gill's chances.

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has also weighed in on the debate between Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal for the backup opener's position. While Gill had a brilliant IPL 2025 season with 650 runs at an average of 50 and a strike rate of 155.87, Jaiswal is also a strong contender. Aakash Chopra believes Jaiswal is slightly ahead of Gill in the T20I pecking order.

If Iyer is selected, either Shivam Dube or Rinku Singh might have to make way. Both Dube and Rinku were part of India's squad in the T20I series against England in January 2025, but neither had a particularly impressive IPL 2025 season. While Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar are almost certain to be picked as all-rounders, the selectors might have to choose between Dube and Nitish Kumar Reddy for an additional option.

Apart from Iyer's potential comeback, the selection of the second wicket-keeper is also generating buzz. Sanju Samson is likely to be the first-choice wicket-keeper, with Jitesh Sharma emerging as the frontrunner for the backup role. Sharma's impressive finishing skills in IPL 2025 have seemingly put him ahead of Dhruv Jurel, who was part of the squad against England.

Suryakumar Yadav has cleared a fitness test and is set to lead the team in the Asia Cup 2025. Jasprit Bumrah is also expected to feature in the tournament, further bolstering the Indian squad. With the Asia Cup 2025 squad announcement just around the corner, fans and experts alike are eagerly waiting to see the final team composition and whether Agarkar and the selection committee have any surprises in store.