The Indian squad for the Asia Cup 2025 is generating considerable buzz, with the selection committee expected to announce the team around August 19 or 20. All eyes are on whether Shubman Gill will make his return to the T20I format and if Jasprit Bumrah will be available for all matches.
Shubman Gill's T20I Return and Leadership Role
Shubman Gill is widely expected to make a comeback to India's T20I squad for the Asia Cup 2025. Gill's last T20I appearance was in Sri Lanka in July 2024. His recent form, including a remarkable 754 runs in the Test series against England and 650 runs in IPL 2025, has made it difficult for the selectors to ignore him. There is also speculation that Gill could be appointed as the vice-captain for the tournament. He is supposedly contending with Axar Patel for the role. Gill previously served as Suryakumar Yadav's deputy in a T20I series against Sri Lanka.
If Gill returns to the top order, it could create a selection dilemma, potentially impacting players like Abhishek Sharma, despite being the top-ranked T20I batter, or Sanju Samson. While Gill has played solely as an opener in his T20I career, his inclusion might push Samson down the order or out of the playing XI.
Jasprit Bumrah's Availability
Jasprit Bumrah is likely to be a part of the Asia Cup squad. After managing his workload during the Test series against England, Bumrah is expected to lead the pace attack. However, to manage his workload, he might miss the first Test against the West Indies in October.
Possible Squad Composition
With Suryakumar Yadav set to captain the team, the core batting lineup is likely to remain intact. This includes Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma, and Hardik Pandya. The spin department may feature Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, and either Kuldeep Yadav or Varun Chakravarthy.
The pace attack will be led by Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh. The third seamer spot could be a choice between Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana, who have both impressed the selectors.
Other Considerations
The selection committee faces tough decisions with many players vying for limited spots. Players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan might have to wait for their opportunity. KL Rahul is unlikely to be included as he may not fit into India's T20 middle-order plans.
Probable Squad
Based on current reports, a possible India squad for the Asia Cup 2025 could look like this:
The Asia Cup 2025 is scheduled to be held in the UAE from September 9 to 28. India will begin their campaign against UAE on September 10, followed by a high-voltage clash against Pakistan on September 14.
