Gill Returns as Vice-Captain, Could Open India in Asia Cup 2025

India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad has reignited questions over the opening combination, as Shubman Gill returns to the T20I fold with vice-captaincy and a clear path to the opener’s berth, potentially at the expense of Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma. With Gill back in the frame for the UAE event, the competition for the top of the order has sharpened, leaving Samson’s long-standing role as an opener under scrutiny even as he continues to contribute in other ways for India.

Gill’s reinstatement as vice-captain signals a deliberate plan to groom him for leadership across formats, a view echoed by those inside the game who point to his IPL pedigree and recent captaincy exposure. Observers note that Gill’s selection is accompanied by high expectations, given his track record and the IPL success that helped restore his place in the national setup. However, the appointment raises questions about how India will balance emerging leadership with the existing middle-order and keeper-batter options. Critics and supporters alike acknowledge the challenges of shaping a 15-man squad into a coherent XI for a closely fought continental tournament.

Former players and analysts have offered...