The India squad for the Asia Cup 2025 is almost ready, and it already features some big surprises. The biggest surprise is the decision to leave out young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. The selectors have decided to drop him from the team. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill looks set to take on a leadership role. They will announce the final squad by mid-week after reviewing the latest fitness reports from the medical team.
The selectors dropped Jaiswal despite his talent and recent form. They decided to stick with a consistent top order featuring Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, and Hardik Pandya. Consequently, no opening spot remained for Jaiswal. Similarly, players like Sai Sudharsan and KL Rahul may also miss out due to the packed batting lineup.
Shubman Gill has impressed across all formats. He recently led India in Test matches and scored heavily against England. Because of his consistent performance and calm temperament, the selectors see him as a natural choice for a leadership role in the Asia Cup T20 squad. If he steps into this position, Gill will become one of the youngest Indian players to lead in a major ICC event.
On the other hand, Suryakumar Yadav’s fitness remains a key factor. He continues to recover from injury but has already started batting at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. Therefore, his inclusion will depend on a final medical clearance.
The selectors plan to hand Jasprit Bumrah the responsibility of leading the bowling attack. However, they may rest him in a few matches to manage his workload ahead of the West Indies Test series. Arshdeep Singh will likely serve as the second pacer. In the meantime, Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana are vying for the third seamer position, thanks to their standout performances lately.
For spin duties, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar remain strong candidates. Kuldeep Yadav may also return, although the selectors could consider Varun Chakravarthy’s mystery spin if conditions demand it.
Sanju Samson appears set to be the first-choice wicketkeeper. However, the selectors must decide between Jitesh Sharma, known for his big-hitting finishing skills, and Dhruv Jurel, who featured in the last T20I series, for the backup role.
India squad for the Asia Cup 2025
| Players | Roles |
| Suryakumar Yadav (c) | Captain / Middle-order batsman |
| Shubman Gill | Vice-captain / Top-order batsman |
| Abhishek Sharma | Top-order batter |
| Sanju Samson (wk) | Top-order batter / Wicket-keeper |
| Tilak Varma | Top-order batsman |
| Hardik Pandya | All-rounder |
| Shivam Dube | All-rounder |
| Axar Patel | Spin all-rounder |
| Washington Sundar | Spin all-rounder |
| Kuldeep Yadav | Specialist left-arm wrist spinner |
| Varun Chakravarthy | Mystery spin option |
| Jasprit Bumrah | Lead pace bowler |
| Arshdeep Singh | Left-arm pacer |
| Prasidh Krishna / Harshit Rana | Competing for 3rd pace |
| Jitesh Sharma / Dhruv Jurel | Backup wicketkeeper |
The selectors are focused on creating a team that combines seasoned experience with vibrant new energy. While experienced players provide stability, younger names bring aggression and adaptability. Even though Jaiswal’s exclusion may disappoint many fans, the decision reflects the team’s need for balance and versatility.
In conclusion, the India squad for the Asia Cup 2025 combines proven performers, potential leaders, and players returning from injury. While Jaiswal’s absence remains a headline, Gill’s leadership role and the presence of in-form match-winners could make this one of India’s strongest Asia Cup sides in recent years.
