Gill named vice-captain, Bumrah returns as India announce Asia Cup squad

Shubman Gill has been appointed vice-captain of India’s 15-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup T20 in the UAE, while pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah makes his return to the side. The tournament begins on September 9, with India opening their campaign against the UAE in Dubai.

Gill’s comeback and leadership role

Gill, who last featured in a T20I against Sri Lanka in 2024, returns after missing the home series against England earlier this year. The 25-year-old, who recently led India to a 2-2 Test series draw in England, has been entrusted with the deputy role to skipper Suryakumar Yadav.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar said Gill’s recent form and leadership qualities made him the right choice: “Gill’s form in England exceeded expectations. He is someone we see as a future leader across formats.”

Bumrah strengthens pace attack

India’s bowling unit will be boosted by the inclusion of Jasprit Bumrah, who was named Player of the Series in last year’s T20 World Cup. He joins Arshdeep Singh, Hardik Pandya and Harshit Rana in the pace department, while Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel and Varun Chakaravarthy form the spin options. All-rounder Abhishek Sharma provides an additional part-time bowling option.

Competition for opening slots

The squad includes three frontline openers – Gill, Abhishek Sharma, and Sanju Samson. With all three in strong form, the team management will have to decide the best combination at the top. “Once we get to Dubai, we’ll have more clarity. Shubman, Sanju, and Abhishek are all strong options,” said Agarkar.

Notable exclusions

Despite recent good form, Shreyas Iyer and Yashasvi Jaiswal missed out. Agarkar admitted it was a tough call: “No fault of theirs, but with the balance we needed, someone had to miss out.”

Wicketkeeping choices

Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma are the two designated wicketkeepers. Samson’s experience could earn him the first-choice role, though Jitesh’s explosive batting keeps him in contention.

Full squad: Surya Kumar Yadav (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Sanju Samson (WK), Harshit Rana, Rinku Singh

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