India’s squad for the Asia Cup 2025 has been announced, and one of the biggest highlights is the return of Shubman Gill to the T20I setup. After being away from the format for more than a year, Gill has made a strong comeback and has been entrusted with the responsibility of vice-captain. With Suryakumar Yadav leading the side, the selectors’ decision to elevate Gill reflects their long-term vision of grooming him for bigger leadership roles across formats.
Gill’s recent form in Test cricket was a major factor behind this decision. His sensational run in England, where he amassed over 750 runs in the series, caught the eye of the selectors. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar praised Gill’s performances, saying his batting had “exceeded expectations” and justified giving him additional responsibility in the T20 setup. The move has also been welcomed by captain Suryakumar Yadav, who expressed happiness at having Gill back in the squad, describing him as a vital presence both on and off the field.
However, the announcement also brought surprises. Shreyas Iyer and Yashasvi Jaiswal were left out of the squad, sparking debate among fans and experts. Both players were seen as strong contenders for a place in the team, and their absence highlights the depth of competition within Indian cricket at the moment. While the omissions may be disappointing for the players, it also underlines the selectors’ emphasis on current form and long-term planning.
The Asia Cup, scheduled to take place in the UAE from September 9 to 28, will be a crucial tournament for India as they continue preparing for the next T20 World Cup. The return of Gill in a leadership capacity not only strengthens the batting lineup but also signals the trust the team management and selectors have in his maturity and ability to guide the side. With a mix of experienced campaigners and young talent, India will be hoping that this squad strikes the right balance to reclaim continental dominance.