Highlights of India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad: Gill, Bumrah return; Shreyas, Yashasvi left out

The Asia Cup 2025 is scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates from September 9 to 28. The tournament will feature eight competitive teams, all aiming to lift the prestigious trophy in what promises to be an exciting cricketing contest.

India has already revealed its squad for the event, showcasing a strong and balanced lineup. The selectors have ensured that the team includes experienced performers as well as young talents who can make a difference on the big stage. With a packed schedule and intense competition expected, India’s preparation looks solid going into the tournament.

However, the squad announcement also brought mixed emotions for fans. While some big names have successfully made a comeback to the side, others were left out of the tournament. These selection decisions are likely to spark discussions, but they also highlight the depth of talent available in Indian cricket today.

See Also: Asia Cup 2025: Strongest Playing XI for India

Highlights of India’s Squad for Asia Cup 2025:

After announcing the squad, Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar and T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav spoke to the media, discussing team selections, player roles, and India’s preparations for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

They discussed player selections, exclusions, and the overall balance of the team. Both provided clarity on the decision-making process and highlighted key aspects of the squad, offering insights into India’s plans for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

• Shubman Gill included in the Asia Cup Squad as Vice Captain

Shubman Gill has returned to India’s T20 squad after a long gap, with his last appearance in the shortest format coming during the Sri Lanka series in July 2024. Over the past year, he has impressed with consistent and impactful performances in other formats, which eventually earned him a well-deserved comeback. Gill has been appointed vice-captain for Asia Cup 2025, reflecting the selectors’ strong confidence in his leadership and abilities.

At the squad announcement, chief selector Ajit Agarkar explained Shubman Gill’s selection and his expected role within the team. He hinted at Gill’s strong chances of featuring in the playing XI, underlining his versatility and ability to anchor the innings while also adapting to the team’s needs.

He said, “ We will take the call on the best balance for the team. Once we get to Dubai, will have a bit more clarity. More options available now, Shubman has been in great form anyway last few months. So has Sanju. so two good options, along with Abhishek.”

• Shreyas Iyer misses out Asia Cup Squad

Shreyas Iyer has not featured in T20Is for India since 2023, but his recent IPL form raised expectations of a comeback. His solid performances in the tournament made many believe he had done enough to earn a recall.

He returned strongly during the 2025 Champions Trophy, playing a vital role in India’s middle order and helping the team lift the trophy. Despite clearing his fitness test at the NCA, Iyer was left out of the Asia Cup 2025 squad. The decision surprised fans and experts alike, especially after his consistent contributions earlier in the year.

On Shreyas’s exclusion, Ajit Agarkar said, “ With respect to Shreyas, who can he replace? It's not his fault, but neither ours.”

• Yashasvi Jaiswal isn’t part of Asia Cup Squad

Yashasvi Jaiswal, recognized for his aggressive batting style, missed out on a place in India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad due to stiff competition among openers. Instead, he has been named in the standby list for the tournament. Earlier, Jaiswal was also included in India’s T20 World Cup squad but did not get an opportunity to feature in the playing XI, leaving him eager for future chances.

Ajit Agarkar informed, “ It’s unfortunate. With what Abhishek has done over the last year or so, plus he give us a bowling option is required. One of these guys was always going to miss out.”

• Jitesh Sharma’s Comeback in the Squad

Jitesh Sharma’s consistent performances in the IPL as a wicketkeeper-batter have earned him a spot in the Asia Cup squad. With Rishabh Pant unavailable, Jitesh provides a reliable option behind the stumps while also adding depth to the batting lineup. His aggressive stroke play and ability to handle pressure make him a valuable inclusion, strengthening India’s middle order in crucial situations during the tournament.

• Jasprit Bumrah is back in the Asia Cup Squad

Jasprit Bumrah, a key performer in the T20 World Cup, returns to play in the Asia Cup after a long break. Despite missing the first half of the IPL, he delivered strong performances upon his return. During the England tour, he was rested before the final match, leaving uncertainty about his Asia Cup participation. Now that he is part of the main squad, he is expected to be the mainstay of India’s bowling attack in the UAE.

Agarkar said, “ I don’t think there’s any written plan. Been a nice break after the England series. Physios, team management been in touch. Clearly we want him available for all the big games. There are World Cups, Champions Trophy, big series like England, Australia - you want him available. Because he’s picked up injuries over the last 2-3 years, because of how special and unique it is - it won’t change. Based on how he’s feeling and how we require him, we hope he’s available more often than not.”

• Team India’s Spin Trio: Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav & Varun Chakaravarthy

Team India’s spin department for the Asia Cup 2025 features Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Varun Chakaravarthy. All three impressed during the Champions Trophy in Dubai, showcasing their skills in crucial moments.

Axar Patel has been outstanding with both bat and ball, providing balance as an all-rounder. Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy excelled with their spin bowling, offering variation and control. The selectors aimed to include two wrist-spin options in Kuldeep and Varun, with Axar strengthening the team as a reliable all-rounder.

• Team India’s Pace Trio: Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana & Arshdeep Singh

India’s pace attack for the Asia Cup 2025 includes Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, and Arshdeep Singh. Bumrah missed the Champions Trophy due to injury, but his vast experience and skill make him a key asset in any condition. He is expected to lead India’s bowling attack and play a pivotal role in the UAE conditions.

Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh were part of India’s squad in the Champions Trophy. Harshit impressed in Dubai with his exceptional bowling skills, while Arshdeep, though not playing, proved his value with variations and technique. Both are set to strengthen India’s pace department in the tournament.

Team India’s Squad for the Upcoming Asia Cup:

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

Standby Players: Prasidh Krishna, Washington Sundar, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Yashasvi Jaiswal