Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Aug 19: In a surprise twist ahead of the Asia Cup T20I tournament, India’s national selectors have named Shubman Gill as vice-captain, signalling a strong vote of confidence in the Test skipper’s all-format prowess. The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee also recalled star pacer Jasprit Bumrah and spinner Kuldeep Yadav, both fresh from impressive T20 World Cup campaigns, for the continental showdown to be held in the UAE from September 9 to 28.
The biggest talking point, however, is the omission of Shreyas Iyer, despite his standout IPL 2025 season. Mohammed Siraj, a key figure in India’s Test series in England, also didn’t make the 15-member cut, nor did pacer Prasidh Krishna, who many considered a front-runner. Instead, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana will partner Bumrah and Hardik Pandya in the pace attack, while Shivam Dube will offer all-round support. The spin department features Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Kuldeep Yadav.
Gill’s inclusion, despite recent focus on red-ball cricket, comes after a phenomenal Test series in England where he amassed 752 runs, including a double ton. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav backed the decision, citing Gill’s past leadership roles and performance in Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe tours post the 2024 T20 World Cup.
“He was the vice-captain last time and brings a lot of experience despite his age,” Surya said.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar clarified that Gill’s T20 absence was due to scheduling conflicts with Tests, allowing others like Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma to step up. “Now that he’s available, there’s no question about his place in the squad,” Agarkar added.
The top order is set to be competitive with Gill, Abhishek, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, and Jitesh Sharma all vying for spots. The middle order will be helmed by Surya, with strong support from Hardik, Rinku Singh, and Dube.
India’s Asia Cup campaign kicks off on September 10 against the UAE, followed by a high-stakes clash with Pakistan on September 14. The Men in Blue are grouped with Pakistan, Oman, and UAE in Group A. Post Asia Cup, India will play 15 more T20Is as part of their build-up to the 2026 T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
India's T20I Squad for Asia Cup 2025:
Main Squad:
Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Shubman Gill (Vice-Captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Sanju Samson (WK), Harshit Rana, Rinku Singh.
Standbys:
Prasidh Krishna, Washington Sundar, Dhruv Jurel, Riyan Parag, Yashasvi Jaiswal.