A former India cricketer expressed surprise over the composition of India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad.
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Asia Cup 2025 Squad Announcement Sparks Debate

The BCCI, led by Ajit Agarkar, unveiled India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad, sparking discussions among fans and experts alike. Shubman Gill was named vice-captain under captain Suryakumar Yadav, while notable players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shreyas Iyer were left out.
Former India cricketer Madan Lal expressed surprise at Jaiswal’s omission and questioned the committee’s decision regarding Hardik Pandya. Although Pandya remains in the squad, he has been removed from the vice-captaincy role—a change that was first made during the 2024 World Cup.
‘I don’t know why Hardik Pandya has been removed’: Madan Lal

“Sometimes you feel surprised that a player like Yashasvi Jaiswal is not in the team…I don’t know why Hardik Pandya has been removed,” Lal said. He added, “Gill is a good choice as he is performing well. In the coming time, it is possible that Gill will play in all three formats. Players who help the team win must not be left out. We have such a good team that we may win the Asia Cup.”
Jaiswal, along with Prasidh Krishna, Washington Sundar, Riyan Parag, and Dhruv Jurel, has been named in the standby list. India, the defending champions, will play in the UAE from September 9-28. The squad also features Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma, who have been a dominant opening pair in recent T20Is. However, Gill’s inclusion as an opener has raised questions about Samson’s role for the tournament.