With just weeks to go until the Asia Cup 2025, the Indian cricket team is facing a crucial decision: who will lead the side in the absence of Suryakumar Yadav?
According to Indian media reports, selectors are considering Test captain Shubman Gill and all-rounder Hardik Pandya as the two strongest candidates for the T20I captaincy for the upcoming continental tournament.
Yadav, who was appointed India’s T20I captain after Rohit Sharma stepped down from the format earlier this year, is still recovering from sports hernia surgery and is unlikely to be fit in time for the tournament. His absence has prompted the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to evaluate other leadership options.
Gill’s Rising Stock
Shubman Gill has seen a meteoric rise in leadership stature after guiding a young Indian side to a 2-2 Test series draw in England, where he also finished as the series’ top run-scorer. His maturity and recent experience as captain have reportedly impressed the selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar.
“Gill’s composure under pressure and ability to lead from the front makes him a strong candidate,” a BCCI official was quoted as saying.
Pandya Still in the Frame
Despite Gill’s growing influence, Hardik Pandya remains very much in contention. A World Cup-winning all-rounder and former stand-in white-ball captain, Pandya’s leadership credentials are well known. However, his recurring injury issues and inconsistent availability have created uncertainty about his long-term role.
Pandya had previously been seen as the natural successor to Rohit Sharma, especially given his leadership at Mumbai Indians and in various bilateral series. Yet, fitness concerns have prevented him from cementing the role.
Decision Expected Soon
The final decision is expected to be made in the second week of August, just ahead of the squad announcement. The Asia Cup 2025 will be held in UAE in a T20 format, beginning September 9.
India have been placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, UAE, and Oman. Their high-profile group-stage match against arch-rivals Pakistan is scheduled for September 14.
As India look to fine-tune their squad for the T20 World Cup 2026, the Asia Cup serves as a crucial platform to test leadership and combinations.
For now, fans and analysts alike await the selectors’ decision—will it be the calm authority of Shubman Gill or the explosive leadership of Hardik Pandya?
