After a successful IPL 2025, where he scored 650 runs, and a strong showing in the England Test series with 754 runs, Shubman Gill’s selection for the Asia Cup 2025 is a hot topic. Discussions revolve around whether he will be included in the playing XI, and who might be replaced if he is selected. There’s even speculation that Gill might be in the squad but not make the final eleven.
Mohammad Kaif believes the team might stick with the current batting order, even with Gill’s impressive form. Kaif has shared his playing XI prediction on social media, suggesting Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson as openers, followed by Tilak Varma, captain Suryakumar Yadav, Axar Patel, and Hardik Pandya. He has also included Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, and Jasprit Bumrah in his predicted lineup.
Notably, Kaif has excluded Gill, Rinku Singh, and Varun Chakravarthy from his starting eleven. However, he mentioned that Gill could be considered as a backup opener. The ultimate decision on the playing XI and the squad will be made on August 19 when Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar announces the Indian team.