The Asia Cup 2025 is just around the corner, and while India’s squad looks strong on paper, one major decision has become the talk of the cricketing world — the appointment of Shubman Gill as vice-captain.
In a surprising twist to India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad announcement, emerging reports reveal that Shubman Gill wasn’t initially the first choice for vice-captaincy. The selection panel first leaned toward Axar Patel, but ultimately pivoted to Gill—especially after support from coach Gautam Gambhir tipped the balance.
Axar Patel Tipped to Be Deputy — Until the Mood Shifted
According to reports from Media the selection committee’s initial preference was Axar Patel, who served as vice-captain during the recent T20I series against England. However, sources say the committee was ultimately swayed by a desire to invest in a leader with long-term potential:
“Gill wasn’t the first choice initially, but the overall mood at the selection meeting was that it’s better to invest in a player who is likely to serve Indian cricket for long.”
This strategic shift underscores selectors’ long-term vision in grooming leaders for the future, rather than opting for short-term continuity.
Gambhir Joins the Meeting — Via Video Call
The real twist came when Gautam Gambhir, India’s head coach, joined the selection meeting via video call. Gambhir, who has worked closely with Gill in the IPL, is believed to have strongly supported the youngster’s elevation.
While exact details of what Gambhir said remain private, sources suggest his backing played a decisive role. Once Gambhir put his weight behind Gill, the mood in the room shifted. Suddenly, the argument wasn’t about “who deserves it now” but about “who can lead us tomorrow.”
Why Gill Made Sense
So, why Gill in the end? A few key reasons stand out:
- Outstanding Form – Gill’s recent exploits in the England Test series impressed the selectors. He not only scored big runs but also showed composure in tough situations.
- Leadership Potential – As India’s Test captain, Gill is already in the leadership setup. Handing him the vice-captaincy in T20Is creates a smoother pipeline for future captaincy roles.
- Long-Term Vision – With a generational shift happening in Indian cricket, grooming Gill as a leader now ensures stability in the years ahead.
BCCI Explains the Decision
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar later explained that Gill’s selection wasn’t just about form but about exceeding expectations. “He has been outstanding. He has exceeded all our expectations and shown the temperament we want from future leaders,” Agarkar said.
That statement makes it clear — the selectors are looking at Gill as not just a player, but as a cornerstone of India’s future.
India’s Asia Cup squad, announced last week, is packed with big names like Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, and Rishabh Pant. However, the omissions of Shreyas Iyer and Yashasvi Jaiswal sparked debate. Fans were already buzzing about those decisions when the Gill-vice-captaincy story broke, adding even more intrigue to the squad announcement.
For India, the move signals a new era of leadership. Surya Kumar Yadav will captain the side in this tournament, but Gill’s appointment shows that the selectors and Gambhir have their eyes firmly set on the next generation.
Shubman Gill may not have been Ajit Agarkar’s first choice for vice-captain, but sometimes cricket is about looking beyond the present. With Gambhir’s backing and his own sparkling form, Gill has been handed a golden opportunity.
As India head into the Asia Cup 2025 in the UAE, all eyes will be on how this young vice-captain handles his new responsibility. Will this be the start of India’s next big leadership story? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain — Gill’s promotion has already set the stage for a fascinating tournament.
