India Asia Cup 2025 Squad Prediction
With the Asia Cup 2025 around the corner, the buzz around India’s squad announcement is growing stronger. The BCCI selection committee is expected to reveal the official squad next week, but former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has already shared his version of the team—and it features some big surprises.
Kaif’s Choices: Jaiswal & Rinku Left Out
Two of India’s most talked-about T20 names, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rinku Singh, have been left out of Kaif’s squad. Instead, he has shown faith in Shubman Gill as the back-up opener, citing Gill’s excellent form in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy in England.
Kaif explained, “There is a tough fight for the backup opener spot between Gill and Jaiswal. I think, given the form he showed in England, Gill would be preferred.”
Kaif’s Probable XI
- Openers: Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma
- No. 3: Tilak Varma
- Middle Order: Suryakumar Yadav, Axar Patel (vice-captain)
- All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar
- Bowlers: Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy
Kaif also backed Jitesh Sharma as the second wicketkeeper and insisted that Mohammed Siraj should be part of the squad.
The Curious Case of Rinku Singh
Rinku Singh’s omission has raised eyebrows, especially given his reputation as a finisher. His iconic IPL moment—five sixes in an over against Yash Dayal—made him a household name. However, his recent form tells a different story.
In IPL 2024, Rinku faced just 113 deliveries, and in IPL 2025, he managed 134 balls, signaling a reduced role. Even at KKR, under Gautam Gambhir’s mentorship, Rinku wasn’t utilized as a frontline batter. His struggles to secure a permanent spot in the Indian XI, combined with a lack of consistent opportunities, may have led to Kaif’s decision.
What Lies Ahead
While Kaif’s squad is only a personal choice, it does reflect the selection headaches India faces. With the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka next year, every performance in the Asia Cup will be crucial for players fighting for their place.
As things stand, Rinku Singh and Yashasvi Jaiswal may find themselves on the sidelines unless the selectors spring a surprise when they make the official announcement.
📸 Follow us on Instagram [@Sportsnewsxpress] for live updates, news