
Harbhajan Singh has named his preferred Indian squad for the 2025 Asia Cup, leaving out Sanju Samson, Rinku Singh, and Tilak Varma. He has backed Suryakumar Yadav to lead the side, with Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, and Yashasvi Jaiswal returning despite not featuring in any T20Is this year.
For the wicketkeeper’s role, he has opted for either KL Rahul or Rishabh Pant. His pace attack includes three seamers, with Mohammed Siraj chosen over Harshit Rana and Mohammed Shami. Harbhajan has also added three spin-bowling all-rounders, including Riyan Parag, alongside specialist spinner Kuldeep Yadav.
“KL Rahul is a name that I didn’t take. He can also be a very, very good option since I am not putting any other keeper. KL can be another option. One of him or Rishabh Pant should be there,” Harbhajan said in an interview with The Times of India.
Harbhajan Singh also is confident in Gill’s ability to adapt to T20 demands and deliver match-winning performances. India will begin their Asia Cup campaign against the UAE on September 10, with final squad decisions closely watched by fans.
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“I think he can play the format well and dominate as well. We used to watch fours and sixes, but it is not necessary that in 20 overs, one needs to hit only fours and sixes. We also need someone who can play the big innings,” he said.
Harbhajan Singh’s Asia Cup squad for India
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Hardik Pandya, Shreyas Iyer, Washington Sundar, KL Rahul/Rishabh Pant Riyan Parag, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, and Arshdeep Singh.
Last Updated on August 16, 2025
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