Shubman Gill Returns, Shreyas Iyer Misses Out As Ajit Agarkar-Led Panel Announces India Squad News24 –
The wait is finally over. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced India’s 15-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to begin on September 9. The tournament, a crucial preparatory stage ahead of next year’s T20 World Cup, will see some fresh faces alongside established match-winners in the Indian setup.
Leading the side will be Suryakumar Yadav, who has been handed the captaincy, while Shubman Gill has been appointed vice-captain. Both players have been in fine form and their leadership will be closely watched in what is expected to be a highly competitive Asia Cup.
🚨 #TeamIndia‘s squad for the #AsiaCup 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,…
— BCCI (@BCCI) August 19, 2025
No Shreyas Iyer And Yashasvi Jaiswal
One of the biggest talking points from this selection is the absence of Shreyas Iyer and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Both had been integral parts of India’s white-ball plans in recent times, but the selectors have opted for a different combination this time. While Iyer’s omission raises eyebrows given his experience in the middle order, Jaiswal’s exclusion suggests that the selectors are banking on Abhishek Sharma’s recent explosive form at the top.
The middle order looks solid with the likes of Tilak Varma, and Rinku Singh, providing both stability and firepower. The return of Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube gives India multiple all-round options, while Axar Patel further strengthens the balance.
Behind the stumps, Jitesh Sharma has been rewarded for his consistency in domestic cricket and the IPL, edging ahead in the wicket-keeper race.
Bumrah Strengthens Bowling Attack
India’s bowling attack wears a balanced look with the proven experience of Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav, complemented by the young pace of Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana. The inclusion of mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy adds variety, making India’s bowling unit capable of troubling any opposition in subcontinental conditions.
A New Chapter
This squad reflects a blend of youth and experience. While Suryakumar Yadav’s captaincy will be tested in a major tournament for the first time, players like Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, and Harshit Rana will be eager to grab their opportunities on the big stage.
India’s Asia Cup journey has often been about finding the right balance ahead of global tournaments, and this time, the selectors have made some bold calls by leaving out established names like Iyer and Jaiswal. Whether this gamble pays off will be revealed once the tournament kicks off on September 9.
Team India Squad:
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.