Defending champions India have announced a strong 15-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025, set to take place in the United Arab Emirates from 9 September. The squad features a blend of experienced campaigners and exciting young talent, with Suryakumar Yadav named captain and Shubman Gill appointed as his deputy.

India will open their campaign on 10 September against the hosts UAE in Dubai, aiming to clinch a record-extending ninth Asia Cup title in the T20I format.

A major highlight of the squad is the return of Jasprit Bumrah, India’s premier fast bowler, who is set to play his first white-ball series in almost a year following an injury layoff. Bumrah last appeared for India during their victorious 2024 T20 World Cup campaign, where he was instrumental with 15 wickets, including key breakthroughs in the final.

The squad reflects the selectors’ confidence in India’s next generation of cricketers. Promising youngsters Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, and Rinku Singh have retained their places following recent impressive performances. Their inclusion signals a continued shift towards a dynamic, aggressive style of play suited to the T20 format.

In the wicketkeeping department, Sanju Samson has been named as the first-choice gloveman, while Jitesh Sharma makes a return to the national side after more than a year. Both are expected to play vital roles in India's middle order.

The selection of two spin options—Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy—alongside all-rounder Axar Patel, gives India a varied bowling attack suited to subcontinental pitches. Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana round out the pace options alongside Bumrah.

India’s group-stage fixtures are all scheduled in Dubai, starting with their opener against the UAE on 10 September, followed by a high-stakes clash with arch-rivals Pakistan on 14 September, and a final group match against Oman on 19 September. All matches are set to begin at 7:30 PM IST.

India's Asia Cup 2025 Squad:

Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Shubman Gill (Vice-Captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (Wicketkeeper), Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper), Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy.

Likely Playing XI:

Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav.

 It is quite evident that the selectors have bet on the squad’s balance of youth and experience to deliver success. With Suryakumar’s aggressive batting leadership and Bumrah’s return to spearhead the bowling attack, India appear well-poised to retain their title.

With the tournament coinciding with Navaratri, fans will be hoping for a festive run of form from the Men in Blue.