The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a 15-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025, packed with promising youngsters and a few returning veterans. However, the selection also led to raised eyebrows as several in-form and consistent performers from the IPL 2025 were left out. Let's take a look at the best possible playing XI of unpicked Indian players who arguably deserved a shot at the continental tournament (Photos: IPL/BCCI/AFP)
Updated On: 2025-08-20 12:50 PM IST
Compiled by : Srijanee Majumdar
Openers: Sai Sudharsan and Prabhsimran Singh
Topping the IPL 2025 run charts, Sai Sudharsan was a standout performer, amassing 759 runs in 15 matches at an average of 54.21 and a strike rate exceeding 155. His consistency and composure made him the most prolific batter of the season.
Partnering him at the top is Prabhsimran Singh, the explosive wicketkeeper-batter from Punjab Kings. With 549 runs in 17 games at a strike rate of 160.52, his attacking style would ideally complement Sudharsan’s solidity, making for a balanced and dangerous opening pair.
Middle order: KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer (C), Nehal Wadhera, Ashutosh Sharma
KL Rahul, despite an excellent IPL and a strong showing on the England tour, finds himself omitted once again. His experience and recent form make him a valuable No. 3.
Captaincy duties in this lineup go to Shreyas Iyer, who led PBKS to the IPL 2025 final. With composure and leadership, Iyer slots in at No. 4 as the backbone of the batting order
Nehal Wadhera had a breakthrough season, scoring 369 runs in 16 matches at a strike rate of 145.84. A gritty left-hander, he proved effective under pressure, maintaining the left-right balance in the lineup.
Ashutosh Sharma, the emerging DC finisher, showcased his calmness under fire. With several clutch performances, he emerges as the ideal floating batter and late-innings aggressor
All-rounders and bowlers: Krunal Pandya, Sai Kishore, Yuzvendra Chahal, Khaleel Ahmed, Mohammed Siraj
Krunal Pandya played a key role in RCB’s title-winning run, contributing effectively with both bat and ball. His presence offers much-needed depth and versatility.
Sai Kishore was a standout left-arm spinner, collecting 19 wickets in 15 games. His ability to bowl in all phases of the game gives tactical flexibility
While Yuzvendra Chahal had a quiet IPL, his knack for breaking partnerships in the middle overs and wealth of experience keep him in contention.
Khaleel Ahmed was one of the rare bright spots for CSK, picking up 15 wickets in 14 games. His ability to bowl both with the new ball and at the death adds value.
Mohammed Siraj leads the pace attack, bringing international experience and a proven record as a strike bowler in white-ball formats
