'Can't understand Iyer's exclusion,' 'Samson's fate sealed': Ex-India cricketers' major takeaways from Asia Cup squad

From Shubman Gill being appointed as the vice-captain of the squad to Shreyas Iyer getting snubbed, the Asia Cup 2025 squad of Team India has left plenty to discuss. While selections like Jasprit Bumrah’s inclusion were widely praised, choices such as Shivam Dube’s selection triggered debates on social media.

In addition to fan reactions, experts also weighed in on the Asia Cup 2025 squad selection. Abhishek Nayar and Aakash Chopra, part of JioHotstar’s broadcasting panel, provided detailed analysis of the squad choices.

Shubman Gill potential all-format captain

Speaking about Shubman Gill’s selection, Nayar stated that it gives a hint of the selectors’ mindset. According to him, the selection committee sees him as an all-format batter and he may subsequently become the captain of India in all formats.

“This squad announcement sort of tells you the mindset of the selectors," Nayar said. “With the selection of Shubman, in time, he is going to be an all-format captain, and that’s where they are sort of positioning him. Great pick, terrific player. I’m sure he’s going to follow the mindset of being attacking, having that approach. And I feel it’s going to be a very, very interesting next 12 months in Shubman Gill’s life.”

However, Nayar’s excitement turned into astonishment as he could not wrap his head around the fact that Shreyas Iyer has not found a place in the squad.

“I can’t fathom or understand what reason could justify Shreyas Iyer not being part of the 20-member squad. I’m not even talking about the final 15, but the 20 itself, which sends a clear message that Shreyas Iyer is not in the selectors’ scheme of things, at least from a T20 perspective,” he added.

Aakash Chopra on Samson’s fate

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra shared his perspective on the T20I squad for the Asia Cup 2025, stating that with Shubman Gill’s inclusion and a packed middle order, he does not see Sanju Samson featuring in the playing XI.

“India seems to be moving in the direction of an all-format captain. With Shubman Gill’s return, Sanju Samson’s fate has more or less been sealed; he won’t feature in the playing XI now”, Chopra said. “You won’t drop Tilak Varma or Hardik Pandya, which means Samson sits out, and Jitesh Sharma will likely get the nod again. One thing is very clear from this selection: the batting slots have been prioritised over personalities. With Gill coming in as vice-captain, he will definitely play and open the batting. This essentially pushes Sanju Samson out of the XI.”

Pathan sees it as the beginning of Gill’s era

Former India bowler Irfan Pathan shared his thoughts on the Asia Cup 2025 squad selection via social media. According to Pathan, Shubman Gill’s selection marks the start of a new era for Indian cricket across all formats. He wrote, “Shubman Gill era has begun for Indian cricket in all format.”

Pathan also addressed Shreyas Iyer’s situation, expressing confidence that the batter will soon return to the T20I scene and become part of the leadership group.