The squad for the Asia Cup, which was announced on Tuesday, is expected to serve as the foundation for the 2026 T20 World Cup team; all signs suggest this outcome. India’s Asia Cup 2025 team, revealed by BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar and T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav, included several unexpected choices. This announcement followed a discussion between BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia and the selection committee. Although some established IPL players were overlooked, a few individuals with less remarkable performances were included.
Shubman Gill has been appointed as vice-captain, and Jasprit Bumrah is also part of the lineup. Nevertheless, Shreyas Iyer and Yashasvi Jaiswal were not included. Iyer accumulated 604 runs in IPL 2025, while Jaiswal scored 559, bringing their total to over 1163 runs. Rinku Singh, despite a subpar IPL season, has earned a place in the squad, while Jaiswal is listed among the five reserve players.
Team India’s Squad for the Asia Cup 2025
Surya Kumar Yadav (C), Shubman Gill (VC), 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.
Shubman Gill’s vice-captaincy matters for India
Leadership Grooming for the Future
At the age of 25, Shubman Gill is regarded as a strategic investment for Indian cricket. By appointing him as vice-captain, the selectors are preparing him to assume the role of captain in the future, facilitating a seamless transition of leadership when Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ultimately retire.
Consistency Across Formats
Gill has proven himself to be a reliable opener in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. His capacity to adjust to various formats positions him as a natural leader who comprehends the requirements of contemporary cricket, and his role as vice-captain contributes to the team’s stability.
Calm Temperament Under Pressure
In contrast to numerous young athletes, Gill has demonstrated exceptional poise during intense matches, such as those in ICC tournaments and IPL playoffs. His tranquil demeanor provides a comforting influence for his teammates, particularly for the younger players during critical moments.
Inspirational Figure for Young People
Gill embodies the emerging generation of Indian cricket—driven, diligent, and technically proficient. His journey from a U-19 World Cup sensation to the vice-captain of India is a compelling narrative that motivates aspiring cricketers and fosters confidence in the future of Indian cricket.
Strategic Balance in Team Dynamics
The presence of Gill as vice-captain contributes to a harmonious atmosphere in the dressing room. Although senior players such as Rohit Sharma offer valuable experience, Gill injects new energy and establishes a strong rapport with the younger members of the squad, fostering unity and effective communication within the team.