The Asia Cup 2025 is all set to begin on September 9 in the UAE, with top cricketing nations from the continent locking horns in the shortest format. This tournament will not only serve as a showcase of regional dominance but also act as vital preparation for upcoming ICC events. For India, the competition provides a platform to test their strongest combinations and refine their approach under high-pressure conditions.
Selection of openers a key for India
In this T20 edition of the Asia Cup, India appear to have settled on Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma as the preferred opening pair. Both players have been in impressive form and the selectors are unlikely to make changes at the top of the order. However, the big question remains: who will serve as the backup opener? With two promising options in Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, the team management faces a tricky decision. Gill brings reliability and recent success in leadership roles, while Jaiswal offers explosive starts with his fearless strokeplay.
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Mohammad Kaif names his choice for backup opener
Former cricketer Mohammad Kaif has shared his views on the matter, making it clear who he believes deserves the spot. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif backed Gill over Jaiswal, citing Gill’s recent form and consistency.
“Regarding Gill and Jaiswal, only one might make it, and I believe that, considering the way Shubman Gill performed as captain on the England tour, scoring 750 runs, he deserves a spot. Even in the IPL, he (Gill) scored plenty of runs,” Kaif remarked.
Gill’s ability to anchor an innings while also accelerating when needed gives him an edge, according to Kaif. His performances in both international cricket and the IPL have cemented his reputation as one of India’s most dependable young batters.
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