Starting September 9 in the UAE, the Indian cricket team, led by captain Suryakumar Yadav, will be aiming to defend their title in this prestigious tournament.
A 15-Man Lineup with Key Highlights
The squad comprises 15 carefully selected players, with Suryakumar Yadav appointed as captain. Most of the selections were expected, but a few notable names were left out a move that has sparked discussions across the cricketing fraternity.
The most talked-about omission was Shubman Gill’s name, but there’s a twist Gill not only made it to the squad but has also been named vice-captain, signalling the team’s confidence in his emerging leadership and batting prowess.
Gill Gets His Chance, and Other Selected Players
The team’s opening pair remains intact with Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson, who are trusted to set the tone at the top. Abhishek Sharma, currently ranked as the No. 1 T20 batsman in the world, continues his impressive form, while T20’s No. 2-ranked batter, Tilak Varma, also earned his spot in the squad.
In the middle order, captain Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, and Rinku Singh form the core players who have proven their mettle in recent times. Wicketkeeper-batsman Jitesh Sharma has also been included to bolster the batting options behind the stumps.
On the bowling front, India will rely on the pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh to lead the attack. Spin department sees the experienced Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy tasked with providing crucial breakthroughs and control.
Absentees and Surprising Omissions
While the squad boasts a formidable lineup, some big names have been left out. Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, Washington Sundar, and Mohammed Siraj are notable absentees, raising eyebrows about the selectors’ choices. The exclusions have sparked debates about the team’s balance and future planning.
India’s Asia Cup 2025 Squad
Captain: Suryakumar Yadav
Vice-Captain: Shubman Gill
Openers: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson
Middle Order: Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Rinku Singh
Wicketkeeper: Jitesh Sharma
Fast Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh
Spinners: Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy
Standby Players: Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Prasidh Krishna, Washington Sundar
Aiming for Glory Once Again
As the 17th edition of the Asia Cup kicks off on September 9 in the UAE, India’s focus is clear not just to compete but to defend their crown and add a record-extending ninth title to their tally.
After winning the 2023 edition under Rohit Sharma’s leadership, India has established itself as the most successful team in the tournament’s history, having lifted the trophy eight times.
With a squad brimming with talent, experience, and youthful exuberance, Team India is all set to chase another glorious chapter in Asian cricket.
The cricketing world watches with bated breath, eager to see if this seasoned team can once again etch their name into the history books and bring home the coveted Asia Cup trophy.
