Gill, who has enjoyed a prolific run as Test captain, particularly during the recent tour of England, is not currently a natural fit in the T20I setup. Despite his calibre and leadership potential, the current T20 side has evolved into a cohesive unit in his absence, making his inclusion anything but straightforward
-1755500520667_d.png "Asia Cup 2025: Selectors face Shubman Gill dilemma amid T20 abundance")
Shubman Gill (Pic: AFP)
With the Asia Cup in the UAE just weeks away, the Indian selectors face a significant selection conundrum, how to accommodate the in-form Shubman Gill in a T20I squad that already appears settled and efficient. The continental tournament, scheduled from September 9 to 28, presents a challenge in terms of balancing form, team chemistry, and long-term planning.
Gill, who has enjoyed a prolific run as Test captain, particularly during the recent tour of England, is not currently a natural fit in the T20I setup. Despite his calibre and leadership potential, the current T20 side has evolved into a cohesive unit in his absence, making his inclusion anything but straightforward.
India's bench strength in T20 cricket is arguably unmatched, with nearly 30 players in contention and at least three to four strong options for every position. The top-order, in particular, is heavily contested. Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, and Tilak Varma have all delivered consistently in national colours over the past season. On the other hand, players like Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Sai Sudharsan, who clinched the IPL Orange Cap, are equally deserving of a spot.
The bowling department is no less competitive. Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, and Ravi Bishnoi are all vying for a single spinner’s spot. Meanwhile, the experienced Yuzvendra Chahal continues to be overlooked, despite his proven track record and guile.
The selectors can only name a 15-member squad, and each pick carries significant weight. The larger debate also extends to the leadership group. While Gill is being groomed by some as a future all-format leader and marketing face of Indian cricket, the current T20 side under Suryakumar Yadav has thrived. The team boasts a staggering 85 percent win rate, with 17 victories in their last 20 games, all achieved without the services of Gill or Jaiswal, who have been tied up with Test duties.
Gill had previously served as Suryakumar’s deputy before his Test commitments took precedence. Since then, Axar Patel has filled the vice-captain’s role. While Axar has done a respectable job, there could be discontent if Gill leapfrogs him in the leadership hierarchy without returning to the format.
The bigger puzzle remains the batting order. If Gill is picked in the squad, logic dictates he must be in the playing XI. That would mean leaving out one of Sanju, Abhishek, or Tilak. Additionally, Gill’s inclusion could jeopardise Rinku Singh’s spot. The hard-hitting left-hander has not impressed in recent outings, either for India or in the IPL under head coach Gautam Gambhir’s tenure.
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