New Delhi:
Shubman Gill is set to return to India’s T20I fold for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 in the UAE, this time with an added responsibility a leadership role. According to a Times of India report, Gill is likely to be named vice-captain, strengthening the leadership group alongside current T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav.
Gill has not featured in India’s last three T20I bilateral series against Bangladesh, South Africa, and England. His absence allowed players like Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson to shine at the top of the order. However, his stellar performances as captain of a young Indian Test side in England where he amassed 754 runs in five Tests have made it increasingly difficult for selectors to overlook him.
Shubman Gill🇮🇳 likely to be Vice-Captain for Asia Cup 2025 ©️🏆 pic.twitter.com/8X1UwqirxU
— CricketGully (@thecricketgully) August 10, 2025
Selectors Eye All-Format Leadership Continuity
The BCCI selection panel, led by Ajit Agarkar, reportedly favours having one captain across all formats in the long term. While there is no immediate plan to replace Suryakumar Yadav, Gill’s entry into the T20I leadership group appears certain.
Former India selector Devang Gandhi told TOI that clarity is needed on the succession plan:
“The messaging has to be clear about who takes over after Suryakumar Yadav. Split captaincy doesn’t work in India for long. Gill has ticked all the boxes as a batter and has led in the IPL.”
Gandhi also highlighted Gill’s growing brand value as a factor that aligns with Indian cricket’s leadership trends.
Former India wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta echoed the sentiment, suggesting Gill will be groomed as an all-format captain:
“Gill can play the role of Virat Kohli taking the innings deep in high-pressure tournaments. On slower UAE pitches, that quality is vital.”
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Gill’s Previous Leadership Stints
Gill was not part of India’s T20 World Cup-winning squad in June 2024 but captained a young side in Zimbabwe immediately afterward. He also served as T20I vice-captain in the Sri Lanka series before being rested from the shortest format to manage workload across formats.
With the Asia Cup approaching, the selectors are looking beyond the tournament, planning for India’s long-term leadership roadmap. The official squad announcement is expected in the middle of next week.
