India’s cricket fans are buzzing. The big talking point? R. Ashwin’s latest hint that Shubman Gill could push Sanju Samson out of the playing XI for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.
Ashwin recently spoke about India’s tough choices ahead of the tournament in the UAE (from September 9–28). He said that although Samson has had a “fabulous run as a T20 opener for India,” Gill’s electric form means selectors now have a tricky decision on their hands.
What’s more, reports confirm that India’s 15-member Asia Cup squad is out, and it includes Gill—who’s been named vice-captain for T20Is—but tough luck for Shreyas Iyer and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who missed the cut. Ajit Agarkar, the chief selector, made it clear Gill’s inclusion may leave no room for Samson in the XI.
Ashwin doubled down on his thoughts. He believes that Gill’s promotion as vice-captain signals he’ll definitely start, effectively sealing Samson’s place on the bench.
Here’s a quick snapshot of the final squad (India Asia Cup Squad 2025):
- Captain: Suryakumar Yadav
- Vice-Captain & Opener: Shubman Gill
- Other batters: Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube
- Wicket-keepers: Sanju Samson, Jitesh Sharma
- Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel, Harshit Rana, Rinku Singh.
In simple words: With Gill slated to open alongside Abhishek Sharma, Samson’s chances of making the playing XI are slim.
This news also stirred debate back home. Fans and experts questioned favoritism, especially since Shreyas Iyer was also left out, and players like Harshit Rana and Rinku Singh made it in, raising eyebrows about KKR connections.
