The announcement of India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad has already sparked debates, but the loudest voice of criticism came from none other than former India opener Kris Srikkanth. Questioning the sudden inclusion of Test skipper Shubman Gill, Srikkanth bluntly asked:
“Where does Shubman Gill come in suddenly?”
His remark has now turned into the talking point of India’s Asia Cup preparations.
Why Srikkanth Is Against Gill’s Selection
Srikkanth, who never shies away from calling a spade a spade, argued that Gill has not been a consistent part of India’s T20I setup in recent times. Unlike players such as Abhishek Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, or Tilak Varma, who have been making their mark in the shortest format, Gill has been largely focused on Tests and ODIs.
He further stressed that selection should be based on current form and role suitability, not reputation.
“Gill wasn’t in the T20 World Cup squad, he wasn’t in the last few T20 series. So why suddenly parachute him into the Asia Cup side?” Srikkanth questioned during a discussion on the squad reveal.
Not everyone agrees with Srikkanth. Former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh defended Gill’s selection, calling him a true all-format player.
“Look at his class and consistency. We can’t just dismiss someone like Shubman Gill. Players like Abhishek Sharma and Surya are brilliant, but Gill adds stability to the top order,” Harbhajan said, suggesting that India needs a blend of explosive hitters and solid anchors.
This has created a clear divide in opinion—while some see Gill as a misfit in T20Is, others believe he’s too valuable a talent to leave out.
The Bigger Dilemma for Selectors
The BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, has been facing a tough balancing act. With Suryakumar Yadav continuing as T20I captain, India is trying to build a side with youthful aggression while also retaining experienced performers.
Key challenges for selectors:
- Overcrowded Top Order: India already has Sanju Samson, Jaiswal, Abhishek, and Surya who can open or bat in the top 3.
- Gill’s T20 Fit: Despite his brilliance in Tests and ODIs, Gill hasn’t cracked the T20 power-hitting template consistently.
- Leadership Dynamics: As Test captain, Gill’s presence in the squad sends a strong message, but does it disturb the T20 hierarchy?
According to reports, some selectors feel Gill “doesn’t fit into the current T20 scheme of things,” despite his leadership role in Tests.
The debate has naturally spilled onto social media, with fans split down the middle.
- Gill supporters argue that if players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma can play across formats, Gill too deserves that chance.
- Critics, however, echo Srikkanth’s view: “If Gill hasn’t proven himself in T20Is lately, why block the path of in-form youngsters?”
The Asia Cup 2025 isn’t just another tournament—it’s seen as a dress rehearsal for the 2026 T20 World Cup. Every selection now is a statement of intent. By including Gill, selectors either see him as a long-term bet in T20Is—or are unwilling to ignore the stature of a Test captain.
But as Srikkanth rightly pointed out, reputation alone shouldn’t dictate squad spots. If Gill wants to cement his place, he must prove it with match-winning performances in T20 cricket.
The final India squad announcement is just around the corner, but the noise around Gill’s inclusion shows the tough choices facing Indian cricket. With talent overflowing and competition at its peak, even a Test captain’s place isn’t guaranteed.
Whether Gill silences his critics with the bat or fuels further debate will be one of the most exciting storylines of Asia Cup 2025.
