With the Asia Cup 2025 set to kick off on September 9 in the UAE, all eyes are now on the Indian selection committee, which is expected to finalise the 15-member squad later this month. While the official announcement is likely in the third week of August, early discussions suggest a few tough calls lie ahead.
Gill’s Inclusion Splits Selectors
According to a report in The Telegraph, the biggest debate revolves around Shubman Gill. The 24-year-old opener has been in sublime touch, topping the charts in both the IPL and the recently concluded Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy. Yet, his place in the T20I squad is far from certain.
Some selectors argue Gill’s current form makes him a must-pick, while others fear that bringing him into the shortest format could disrupt the team’s rhythm. Workload management is another concern, especially with India’s West Indies Test series beginning just a week after the Asia Cup. If Gill makes the cut, either Sai Sudharsan or Yashasvi Jaiswal—both impressive in the IPL—might have to step aside.
Samson Faces Wicketkeeper Competition
Even Sanju Samson, considered the frontrunner for the wicketkeeper-batter role, is not guaranteed a spot. The selectors are reportedly keeping a close eye on Jitesh Sharma and Dhruv Jurel, both of whom have made strong cases for selection in recent months.
Bumrah, Siraj Likely to Be Rested
India’s pace attack could also see a shake-up. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj may be given a break after a demanding series against England, with the team management keen to keep them fresh for the busy international schedule ahead.
Spin Choices Spark Discussion; Kuldeep Missing From Early List
In the spin department, Washington Sundar, Hardik Pandya, and Axar Patel appear to be near-certainties, alongside specialist options Varun Chakravarthy and Ravi Bishnoi. Notably, there is no mention of Kuldeep Yadav, a mainstay in India’s recent white-ball campaigns, raising speculation about a surprise omission.
As the selection meeting approaches, debates over form, fitness, and team balance promise to keep fans and analysts on edge. For now, the Indian squad for Asia Cup 2025 remains a puzzle—one the selectors will need to solve in the coming weeks.
