India's Asia Cup 2025 campaign is generating considerable buzz, especially regarding team composition for their opening match against the UAE in Dubai. Former India off-spinner R Ashwin has weighed in with his predicted XI, sparking debate by leaving out Sanju Samson. The exclusion of Samson, a talented wicketkeeper-batsman, has raised eyebrows, with Ashwin preferring Jitesh Sharma as the finisher.

Ashwin's suggested lineup sees Shubman Gill partnering with Abhishek Sharma at the top of the order. He believes this combination could be intimidating for opponents. "Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma. Folks get scared with that opening combination," Ashwin stated. He highlighted Gill's ability to score big runs while also playing conventional cricket, suggesting he could anchor the innings. "Abhishek Sharma will tee off at one end. Shubman Gill could be the glue around which the team is built up," Ashwin explained. Other experts also predict Gill to open instead of Samson. Gill is also the vice-captain for the tournament, making him a likely choice for the starting XI.

The middle order, according to Ashwin, would consist of Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, followed by Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel. The bowling attack would be spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh, with Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav handling the spin duties.

This selection strategy suggests a focus on a dynamic opening partnership and a versatile bowling attack. The decision to potentially leave out Samson highlights the intense competition for spots in the Indian team and the importance of role clarity.

The full squad includes Suryakumar Yadav (c), Shubman Gill (vc), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Sanju Samson (wk), Harshit Rana, and Rinku Singh. Standby players include Yashasvi Jaiswal, Prasidh Krishna, Washington Sundar, Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel.

India will begin their Asia Cup 2025 campaign against UAE on September 10 at the Dubai International Stadium. The match is scheduled to start at 8 PM IST. This tournament marks India's return to T20I cricket after a seven-month break. India and Pakistan will face off on September 14.

India has a strong record in the Asia Cup, being the most successful team in the tournament's history with eight titles. In their head-to-head record against the UAE, India has won the only T20I match they have played.