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Shubman Gill is all set to make his return to India’s T20I side in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. The stylish right-hander last played in this format in July 2024, during the Sri Lanka tour. Over the past year, Gill mainly focused on Test and ODI cricket, missing India’s T20I series against Bangladesh, South Africa, and England. His strong and consistent form across formats, however, has earned him a recall, and the selectors have also entrusted him with the vice-captaincy role.
The 25-year-old will now serve as deputy to Suryakumar Yadav, who will be leading India in a major international tournament for the very first time.
Some critics had questioned Gill’s inclusion in the 15-member squad, but batting legend Sunil Gavaskar firmly backed the decision. He pointed to Gill’s outstanding performances as the reason there should be no debate about his place.
“There was no doubt in my mind that he would come into the team because not only had he scored over 750 runs against England, but also because his form in T20Is and IPL was also incredible. He may have not been in the squad for the T20 World Cup last year, but this time there was no doubt that he would make it to the team," Gavaskar told Sports Tak.
India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav also addressed questions about Gill’s long gap from T20I cricket. He explained that Gill’s absence was due to scheduling and his focus on red-ball cricket, not because of poor form.
“Last time when he played T20 post World Cup, when we went to Sri Lanka, he was vice-captain. That’s where we started new cycle for T20 World Cup. After that we got busy with Test cricket, and he didn’t get opportunities. We’re happy to have him," Suryakumar said during the press conference following the squad announcement.
Gill’s comeback further strengthens India’s batting unit, which already includes power hitters and experienced campaigners. Alongside him, the squad features Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, and Axar Patel, offering depth in the middle order. Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav add teeth to the bowling attack, ensuring a strong and well-rounded squad for the tournament.
