As anticipation builds ahead of India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad announcement on August 19, a major talking point has emerged after former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif unveiled his predicted playing XI without Shubman Gill.
Gill, India’s current Test captain and one of the country’s most consistent performers across formats, has found himself at the center of debate despite his strong recent form. Kaif’s bold prediction surprised many, given Gill’s importance in India’s batting order.
The Predicted XI
Kaif’s lineup features Yashasvi Jaiswal as opener, alongside Rohit Sharma, with Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya filling the middle order. Wicketkeeping duties were handed to Rishabh Pant, while the bowling attack included Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, and Mohammed Siraj.
Experts Divided Over Gill vs. Jaiswal
The exclusion of Gill has reignited discussions about India’s top-order strategy in T20 cricket. Former cricketer Aakash Chopra argued that Jaiswal’s explosive, left-handed batting style suits the shorter format better, giving the team attacking flair in the powerplay. Gill, on the other hand, is seen as a more traditional anchor raising questions about whether that role fits India’s current approach.
Selection Meeting Around the Corner
The BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, along with coach Gautam Gambhir and T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav, is set to finalize the squad in Mumbai on Monday, August 19. While Gill is expected to be part of the squad, his spot in the starting XI looks increasingly uncertain.
What It Means for India
Gill’s omission, even in predictions, highlights the selection headaches India faces with its depth of batting talent. With the Asia Cup doubling as a critical preparation step for next year’s T20 World Cup, the team’s balance between power hitters and stabilizers will be under close scrutiny.
As the official announcement nears, the Gill vs. Jaiswal debate is expected to intensify making India’s top-order choices one of the most closely watched storylines of the tournament.
