The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has unveiled the full schedule for the Asia Cup 2025, which kicks off on September 9 in the UAE. All eyes will be on the high-voltage
India vs Pakistan clash on September 14 in Dubai, the same venue that will host the final on September 28.
With a total of 19 matches to be played across Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the T20-format tournament promises plenty of thrills.
India has been drawn in Group A alongside Pakistan, Oman, and hosts UAE, with the top two from each group progressing to the Super Four. Fans could witness up to three possible India-Pakistan encounters, heightening excitement around squad selections. But the question is- How will the Men in Blue line-up?
When it comes to India's probable XI, the opening slot is the most hotly contested. Among the top contenders, Abhishek Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal form a dynamic left-handed pair, while Test skipper Shubman Gill could slot in to provide a left-right combination. All three are explosive batters with IPL and international success under their belts.
In the middle order, wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson is expected to don the gloves, especially with Rishabh Pant nursing a toe injury. Shreyas Iyer, returning to the T20I set-up after a stellar IPL season, is likely to occupy the No. 4 spot, with captain Suryakumar Yadav bringing flair and experience at No. 5.
It is to be noted that SKY is currently under rehab at the NCA after a sports hernia surgery. A lot has been talked about his availability, but it is most likely that he will get fit in time and lead the side.
All-rounders Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel are expected to fill the finishing roles, offering both firepower with the bat and crucial overs with the ball. Kuldeep Yadav, a proven match-winner, is expected to be the lead spinner, supported by the mysterious Varun Chakravarthy. The duo reaped benefits for India in the 50-over Champions Trophy tournament back in Feb-March, which was also staged in the UAE.
In the pace department, Mohammed Siraj will spearhead the attack, with Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya supporting. With Jasprit Bumrah likely to be rested due to workload management and Mohammed Shami still recovering from injury, Siraj becomes the go-to pace leader.
Gautam Gambhir, known for prioritizing batting depth, may still consider adding someone like Washington Sundar for balance, but the current combination seems sharp and ready for the Asia Cup battle.
India's Predicted XI For Asia Cup 2025: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhishek Sharma/Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Varun Chakaravarthy.
