Not Samson! Sunil Gavaskar Backs Shubman Gill to Open for India in Asia Cup 2025
Sunil Gavaskar calls Shubman Gill’s T20I return a no-brainer, backs India to dominate Asia Cup 2025 matches.
Shubman Gill is back in India’s T20I squad, and Sunil Gavaskar believes the decision was an easy one. The young opener, who has also been named vice-captain for the Asia Cup, is now set to play a key role when India begin their campaign against UAE on September 10.
Gavaskar backs Gill’s form and future role
“Looking at the way he batted in the IPL, it was a no-brainer,” Gavaskar said in a chat with Sony Sports Network.
“He has been very successful in the T20 format, and the form he showed in the recent Test series, scoring more than 750 runs, really augurs well for the Asia Cup.”
Gill’s path back into the XI wasn’t straightforward. Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma had delivered flying starts when he was away, but only Gill has managed to find a way back. Jaiswal has been left out, while Samson may have to move out of position or make way altogether.
“It’s a good headache to have,” Gavaskar said. “Samson can bat at three or even down at six as a finisher. Jitesh too has done well in the IPL, but my feeling is Samson will probably get the nod.”
India tipped as big favourites
On the bigger picture, Gavaskar believes India should dominate the tournament.
“I’ll be surprised if India don’t win their matches comfortably, whether it is against Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan or Sri Lanka. Over the last couple of years, this Indian team has been superb and in great touch.”
However, the former captain admitted that the Asia Cup itself has lost some shine with the constant switch between formats.
“When the format keeps changing between ODIs and T20s, the tournament does lose a bit of spark. Still, in T20s, anything can happen in an over, so the smaller teams also get a chance,” he explained.
