Selectors in a Fix—Can India Afford to Leave Out Shubman Gill?

The Asia Cup 2025 is around the corner, and all eyes are on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) as it gears up to finalize the squad. Among the many speculations, the biggest question dominating cricketing discussions is whether Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, two of India’s most talked-about batting talents, will make it to the final 15.

Shubman Gill: The Prince Waiting for His Stage

Gill has often been hailed as the successor to India’s batting greats. His performances in the last two years, especially in Test cricket and ODIs, have shown glimpses of class and temperament. However, the selectors remain cautious because of his patchy run in recent months. Injuries and inconsistent form in T20 cricket have also placed doubts over his immediate inclusion.

Despite this, Gill’s ability to anchor the innings, adapt across formats, and deliver in crunch situations makes him a strong contender. The team management is said to be weighing the balance between rewarding current form and banking on proven potential.

Shreyas Iyer: The Middle-Order Puzzle

For India, the middle order has long been a headache. Shreyas Iyer, once seen as the dependable No. 4, has had a mixed journey—brilliant in patches, but troubled by injuries and questions over his short-ball weakness. With the Asia Cup demanding stability against both spin-heavy attacks from subcontinental teams and the pace threat from Pakistan, Iyer’s presence could provide the much-needed balance.

The selectors also recognize his leadership qualities and experience in high-pressure tournaments, making his case difficult to dismiss outright.

The Competition: Youth vs Experience

Gill and Iyer’s possible selection comes at a time when Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh, and Tilak Varma are pushing hard for spots. The selectors are under pressure to find the right mix of experienced names who can handle big-match nerves, and young guns who can bring freshness and aggression. The Asia Cup, being not just a tournament but also a rehearsal for the World T20 and Champions Trophy ahead, raises the stakes for these decisions.

What the Selectors Are Thinking

While no official announcement has been made, insiders suggest that both Gill and Iyer are still in contention. Their recent net sessions, fitness updates, and match performances are under close review. If the selectors prioritize form, Jaiswal and Rinku may edge ahead. But if they value experience and proven temperament, Gill and Iyer could be brought back into the fold.

The Larger Impact

India’s Asia Cup squad will do more than decide the team for a continental tournament—it will set the tone for the 2026 World Cup cycle. Leaving out senior players could signal a transition towards a younger core, while retaining them may show faith in experience to steady the ship during high-pressure battles. Either way, the decision will have ripple effects across Indian cricket.