The wait is over! Asia Cup 2025 squad has been officially announced — and it’s one of the most debated selections in recent years. With a mix of seasoned stars, promising newcomers, and a few shock exclusions, the 15-man roster has already set the internet buzzing.
The team was revealed in Mumbai after a meeting between BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar, T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav, and BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia. While several expected names made the cut, some in-form players from the IPL were left out, leaving fans and analysts puzzled.
Official Asia Cup 2025 squad 2025
- Suryakumar Yadav (Captain)
- Shubman Gill (Vice-Captain)
- Abhishek Sharma
- Tilak Varma
- Hardik Pandya
- Shivam Dube
- Axar Patel
- Jitesh Sharma (Wicketkeeper)
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Arshdeep Singh
- Varun Chakaravarthy
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper)
- Harshit Rana
- Rinku Singh
Standby Players:
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, Washington Sundar, Riyan Parag, Prasidh Krishna, Dhruv Jurel
Key Talking Points from the Asia Cup 2025 squad Reveal
1. Shubman Gill Named Vice-Captain, But Will He Play?
Shubman Gill’s appointment as vice-captain confirms that the selectors see him as a future T20 leader. But with Abhishek Sharma shining as an opener and contributing with the ball, there’s uncertainty about Gill’s place in the playing XI. According to Agarkar, the decision will depend on conditions in Dubai.
“Shubman was vice-captain the last time he played T20s. It’s a positive headache for the team management,” said Agarkar.
2. Shreyas Iyer and Jaiswal Dropped Despite Strong IPL Form
In a surprising turn, Shreyas Iyer (604 runs in IPL 2025) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (559 runs) were left out of the main squad. Their combined tally of 1163 runs couldn’t guarantee a place, though Jaiswal made it to the standby list.
“One of them had to miss out. It’s unfortunate, but the competition is intense,” Agarkar explained.
3. Rinku Singh Retains Spot Despite Quiet IPL
Despite not having a standout IPL season, Rinku Singh has kept his place in the squad — a testament to the team’s faith in his finishing ability. Agarkar emphasized the importance of having a reliable lower-order batter.
4. Bumrah Returns, Fully Fit and Ready
Star pacer Jasprit Bumrah is back in the squad and fully fit. Concerns around his workload were addressed, with selectors confirming that Bumrah will be managed carefully ahead of key tournaments like the T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy.
“We monitor him closely because of his injury history. He’s a crucial asset,” Agarkar said.
5. Sanju Samson vs Jitesh Sharma – A Keeper Conundrum
Both Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma have been picked as wicketkeeping options. While Samson brings experience and flair, Jitesh has impressed with his aggressive batting in recent games. Who starts behind the stumps remains a tactical decision for the team management.
6. KL Rahul Not in the Picture
Interestingly, KL Rahul hasn’t even been named in the reserves — suggesting a possible end to his T20I career, at least for now. Despite showing a more aggressive style for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025, he was overlooked entirely. Asia Cup or World Cup Trial Run?
Although the Asia Cup is a major tournament, Agarkar made it clear that this isn’t the final squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup.
“This is a chance to evaluate options. There are still 20 games before the World Cup. Injuries and form will play a part,” he said.
Who Missed Out?
Major Omissions from the Squad:
- Shreyas Iyer (Standby)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal (Standby)
- KL Rahul (Not included)
- Washington Sundar (Standby)
- Dhruv Jurel (Standby)
Expert Reactions
Former cricketers and experts like Aakash Chopra and Abhishek Nayar had differing views:
- Chopra: “Jaiswal offers more flexibility than Gill. Benching the Test captain sends a strange message.”
- Nayar: “Shreyas was in top form. It’s tough to understand his exclusion.”
What’s Next for Team India?
With the Asia Cup in Dubai and a tight T20 schedule ahead, India now begins a crucial phase of preparation leading into the T20 World Cup 2026. The squad offers balance — power hitters, spin options, and pace variety — but also demands precise decision-making from the leadership group.
The playing XI will likely rotate depending on opposition and conditions, but one thing is clear: competition for spots has never been fiercer.
Final Word
India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad reflects a forward-looking strategy, combining current form with future potential. While some exclusions may feel harsh, the depth in Indian cricket makes these calls inevitable. With Suryakumar leading a confident group, and the World Cup in sight, fans have a thrilling few months of cricket to look forward to.
