Shubman Gill Appointed Vice-Captain of India’s T20I Squad for Asia Cup 2025

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced India’s squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 9–28. The announcement, made by chief selector Ajit Agarkar at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai, confirmed Shubman Gill as the vice-captain of the T20I side. He will serve as deputy to Suryakumar Yadav, who has been given the captaincy responsibilities.

The decision to appoint Gill as vice-captain comes amidst speculation that he could be left out due to the outstanding performances of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson at the top of the order in recent T20Is. However, selectors have placed their trust in the young Test captain’s consistency and leadership qualities.

Asia Cup 2025: Format and Significance

Traditionally seen as a preparatory tournament before major ICC events, the Asia Cup has switched formats over the years. While the 2023 edition was played in the 50-over format to prepare for the ODI World Cup, the 2025 edition will be played in T20 format, as India and Sri Lanka will co-host the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

This makes the Asia Cup 2025 an important testing ground for India’s squad combinations, with the Men in Blue set to play over 20 T20 matches leading up to the global event.

Shubman Gill: From Uncertainty to Vice-Captaincy

Leading up to the squad announcement, there was widespread speculation that Shubman Gill might miss out, given the rise of aggressive openers like Abhishek Sharma and the form of Sanju Samson. However, selectors opted to back Gill, who has shown maturity as a leader since being handed India’s Test captaincy.

His appointment as vice-captain suggests that the management sees him as a long-term prospect in leadership roles across formats. Alongside Suryakumar Yadav, Gill’s presence is expected to bring stability and tactical depth to the T20I side.

Wicket-Keepers and Batting Options

The squad includes two wicket-keepers—Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma—both of whom have proven themselves as explosive options in the middle order. Samson’s versatility and recent form make him a strong contender for a starting XI spot, while Jitesh adds finishing firepower with his aggressive batting style.

In addition to Gill and Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma and Rinku Singh have been included to strengthen India’s batting lineup. Rinku, known for his finishing abilities, is likely to share end-overs responsibilities with Hardik Pandya.

All-Round Strength: Pandya, Dube, and Axar

India’s squad for the Asia Cup 2025 boasts significant all-round depth. Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, and Axar Patel offer flexibility, ensuring that the team has enough balance across batting and bowling departments.

Axar Patel, in particular, is expected to play a crucial role on the slower pitches in the UAE, complementing the frontline spinners.

Bowling Attack: Mix of Pace and Spin

The pace bowling responsibilities will be led by Jasprit Bumrah, who will be supported by Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana. While Bumrah’s experience provides leadership to the attack, Arshdeep’s left-arm angle and Rana’s raw pace add variety.

On the spin front, India will rely on Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, with Axar Patel offering a third option. These spinners will be key on UAE’s sluggish tracks, where wrist-spin has often played a decisive role in T20 matches.

Full Squad for Asia Cup 2025

• Captain: Suryakumar Yadav

• Vice-Captain: Shubman Gill

• Abhishek Sharma

• Tilak Varma

• Hardik Pandya

• Shivam Dube

• Axar Patel

• Jitesh Sharma (WK)

• Sanju Samson (WK)

• Jasprit Bumrah

• Arshdeep Singh

• Harshit Rana

• Varun Chakravarthy

• Kuldeep Yadav

• Rinku Singh

Looking Ahead

India’s squad for the Asia Cup 2025 reflects a balance of youth and experience, with the inclusion of fresh talents alongside proven match-winners. With Suryakumar Yadav’s captaincy, Gill’s vice-captaincy, and a strong pool of all-rounders, the Men in Blue will look to fine-tune their preparations ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026.

The Asia Cup not only offers India a chance to defend their continental crown but also to solidify their playing XI combinations for the challenges ahead.