New Delhi, Aug 5: As the Asia Cup 2025 approaches, the debate around India's T20 captaincy has intensified. With Suryakumar Yadav still on the path to
full fitness, there seems to be a two-way tussle between Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya for the leadership role in the upcoming multi-nation tournament in the UAE.
According to a Cricblogger report, sources close to the selection panel, while chief selector Ajit Agarkar is slightly inclined towards Gill, Hardik's credentials as a seasoned performer in white-ball cricket keep him in strong contention. Notably, Agarkar has shown trust in Gill in the past, naming him vice-captain during previous T20I assignments.
Selectors Torn Between Experience and Emerging Leadership
Gill, fresh off a stellar showing in the just concluded Test series against England, which ended in 2-2 stalemate, where he led India with composure and tactical nous. The 25-year-old young captain - who was also the leading run scorere (754) in the series - has emerged as the toast of the season. However, insiders suggest his potential appointment as T20 captain would be a temporary measure, largely based on current form and leadership in red-ball cricket.
Hardik Pandya: Experience and Stability
On the other hand, Hardik Pandya remains a fan and selector favourite, having previously captained India in T20Is and led Gujarat Titans to an IPL title. In this year's IPL, Hardik led Mumbai Indians to the playoffs. Former India legend Kapil Dev has publicly voiced his preference for Pandya as the ideal white-ball skipper, citing his temperament and match-winning capabilities.
Suryakumar Yadav's Recovery Timeline
Suryakumar Yadav, who has been India's regular T20I captain since Rohit Sharma's exit after the T20 World Cup 2024 triumph, is currently under BCCI medical supervision as he recovers from a lower abdomen surgery. His rehabilitation is progressing steadily, and he is targeting a return in time for the Asia Cup beginning September 9.
Initially set to return during the Bangladesh T20Is, a series now postponed to 2026, Suryakumar's last competitive appearance came in the Mumbai T20 League in June, where he scored 122 runs in four matches for Triumph Knights. He was being considered for the Duleep Trophy as well but is likely to skip it due to the Asia Cup buildup.
Simulation Matches Ahead of Comeback
To aid his recovery, Suryakumar may participate in simulation training and practice games organised by the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) in late August. The Indian squad is expected to depart for the UAE in the first week of September, with the Asia Cup marking the beginning of India's roadmap to the T20 World Cup 2026, which they co-host with Sri Lanka.
Should Suryakumar fail to recover in time, the selectors will have to choose between Gill's rising leadership potential and Hardik's proven mettle. Either way, the decision is bound to influence India's approach to the T20 World Cup campaign next year. The final squad and captaincy announcement are expected in the coming weeks as the BCCI awaits a clearer update on Suryakumar's fitness status.
