Shubman Gill in Asia Cup 2025 Playing XI: Ajit Agarkar Says “It Depends on Conditions”
Shubman Gill in Asia Cup 2025 Playing XI is the biggest question before the tournament begins. After more than a year away from T20Is, Gill has made a comeback. His excellent form in the IPL 2025 and the England Test series made his selection a certainty. But where exactly he fits in the team is still a matter of debate.
Shubman Gill’s Comeback Story
Shubman Gill was out of India’s T20I team for more than 12 months. But in 2025, he returned strongly.
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In IPL 2025, Gill scored 650 runs in 15 matches while leading Gujarat Titans.
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In the England Test series, he scored 754 runs as captain, proving his adaptability across formats.
These performances forced the selectors to bring him back for the Asia Cup 2025. BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar admitted that Gill’s selection was “a no-brainer.” Shubman Gill in Asia Cup 2025 Playing XI
The Big Question: Where Will Gill Play?
India’s top order is already performing well. Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson have impressed as openers. This leaves little space for Gill.
If Gill does not open, the alternative is No.3. But that position is currently occupied by Tilak Varma, who has shown consistency and is unlikely to be benched.
Agarkar did not give a clear answer about Gill’s role. He said:
“It depends on the captain and management. When we reach Dubai and see the conditions, they will take the call.”
This means Gill’s exact batting position in the Asia Cup 2025 playing XI will be decided later.
Could Gill Replace Sanju Samson as Opener?
Ajit Agarkar hinted that Sanju Samson was opening only because Jaiswal and Gill were unavailable. This suggests that if Gill is fit and available, he might walk back into the opening slot alongside Abhishek Sharma.
If that happens, Sanju Samson could be pushed down the order or even left out of the XI. This is a tough call, especially since Samson has been in great form recently. Shubman Gill in Asia Cup 2025 Playing XI
Shreyas Iyer’s Omission
Another major talking point in India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad is the absence of Shreyas Iyer. Despite leading his IPL teams to back-to-back finals — winning with KKR in 2024 and finishing runners-up with Punjab Kings in 2025 — he did not find a place in the squad. Shubman Gill in Asia Cup 2025 Playing XI
Agarkar explained:
“We have an abundance of T20 talent. Sometimes it is not easy to pick the squad, but it is a good headache to have.”
This shows how competitive the Indian T20 setup has become.
India’s Asia Cup 2025 Squad
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Surya Kumar Yadav (C)
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Shubman Gill (VC)
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Abhishek Sharma
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Tilak Varma
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Hardik Pandya
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Shivam Dube
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Axar Patel
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Jitesh Sharma (WK)
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Jasprit Bumrah
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Arshdeep Singh
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Varun Chakaravarthy
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Kuldeep Yadav
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Sanju Samson (WK)
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Harshit Rana
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Rinku Singh
Standby Players: Prasidh Krishna, Washington Sundar, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Yashasvi Jaiswal
Why Gill’s Role Matters
Shubman Gill’s inclusion is not just about his runs but also about his leadership. As India’s Test captain, he brings authority and confidence. In T20Is, he has the ability to anchor the innings while others play aggressive cricket around him. Shubman Gill in Asia Cup 2025 Playing XI
If he opens, India gets stability at the top. If he bats at No.3, he can control the middle overs. Either way, his role will be crucial in India’s Asia Cup 2025 campaign. Shubman Gill in Asia Cup 2025 Playing XI
The Shubman Gill in Asia Cup 2025 Playing XI debate highlights India’s biggest strength — an overflow of batting talent. While his comeback is certain, his position is uncertain. Ajit Agarkar’s words make it clear that the final call will depend on team strategy and conditions in Dubai. Shubman Gill in Asia Cup 2025 Playing XI
Fans will eagerly wait to see whether Gill opens or bats at No.3, but one thing is sure — his presence makes India’s batting lineup stronger.
