Suryakumar Likely to Miss Asia Cup 2025 After Surgery

Shubman Gill, India’s Test captain, has emerged as a significant contender for the T20I captaincy for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, alongside all-rounder Hardik Pandya, according to reports from the Indian media.

With current T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav still in recovery following sports hernia surgery, selectors are reportedly considering alternative leadership options as India prepares for the continental tournament.

Following speculation about India’s participation, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has officially confirmed the schedule, confirming India’s participation despite Pakistan’s inclusion.

India is scheduled to play a highly anticipated group stage match against Pakistan on September 14.

After Rohit Sharma’s exit from T20Is, Hardik Pandya was initially considered his likely successor, similar to the leadership transition seen at Mumbai Indians.

However, Pandya’s repeated injuries and inconsistent availability have made his selection less straightforward.

Consequently, the BCCI and head coach Gautam Gambhir appointed Suryakumar Yadav as T20I captain, during which India achieved several successful series victories.

However, with Suryakumar’s current absence due to his hernia surgery, opportunities have arisen for other candidates to lead the team in the Asia Cup.

Reports indicate that chief selector Ajit Agarkar is showing support for Shubman Gill to take on the captaincy, encouraged by his impressive performance in England, where he guided a young Indian team to a 2-2 Test series draw and was the highest run-scorer.

Pandya remains a potential choice, supported by his previous World Cup victory and proven leadership abilities in white-ball cricket.

The final decision is anticipated in the second week of August as selectors assess their choices before announcing the squad.