Team India is gearing up for the much-anticipated T20 Asia Cup 2025, set to begin on September 9 in the UAE. Led by Suryakumar Yadav, India will kick off their campaign against the hosts on September 10, followed by a high-voltage clash against Pakistan on September 14 in Dubai.
The selectors have also named Shubman Gill as vice-captain, a decision that comes shortly after his impressive stint as India’s Test skipper, where he led the side to a hard-fought 2-2 draw in the five-match Test series against England. Former England spinner Monty Panesar believes the Asia Cup will be a defining moment for Suryakumar’s captaincy.
“Shubman Gill has great potential to captain India in all three formats. If Suryakumar fails to perform or win the Asia Cup, selectors may hand the white-ball captaincy to Gill. Once Rohit Sharma steps aside, Gill is likely to lead across formats,” Monty Panesar told India TV.
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Gill’s rise as a leader has been remarkable. During his first stint as Test captain, he scored 754 runs in 10 innings, topping the run charts against England. However, he hasn’t played a T20I since July 2024 against Sri Lanka, making this tournament a key platform for him.
Meanwhile, Team India began their first practice session in Dubai on Friday, preparing for their title bid in the eight-nation event. A video shared by ESPNcricinfo on X showed Suryakumar Yadav, head coach Gautam Gambhir, Hardik Pandya, Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma, bowling coach Morne Morkel, and the spin duo of Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav entering the ICC Academy.
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Wicketkeeper Sanju Samson and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah were also seen deep in discussion during training. This Asia Cup marks India’s return to competitive action after a month-long break following their Test series against England, making it a crucial test ahead of the T20 World Cup preparations.
