Asia Cup 2025: Former India cricketer urges Suryakumar Yadav to stay focused amid team selection controversy

The build-up to the Asia Cup 2025 has been anything but quiet for Team India. Squad announcements have sparked debate, particularly over the omission of senior names like Shreyas Iyer and the elevation of Shubman Gill to the role of vice-captain. With questions swirling around team balance and leadership choices, former India all-rounder Madan Lal has stepped in with timely advice for captain Suryakumar Yadav.

Lal, a member of the 1983 World Cup-winning side, stressed that Suryakumar must focus on the bigger picture, India’s pursuit of a record ninth Asia Cup crown, rather than allow off-field chatter to influence his leadership. According to him, one of the keys to India’s campaign lies in trusting Kuldeep Yadav, whose wrist spin has repeatedly proven match-winning in the shortest format. Kuldeep’s exclusion in the recent Test series against England raised eyebrows, but Lal believes conditions in the UAE could make him a game-changer.

The controversy over Gill’s vice-captaincy adds another layer of intrigue. The young opener, who has been in strong white-ball form, now carries the added responsibility of supporting Suryakumar in tactical decisions. Critics argue his appointment overlooks more senior players, but selectors appear keen to groom Gill for a bigger leadership role in the future. For Lal, however, what matters most is unity within the dressing room and clarity in roles on the field.

"India is a strong favourite due to their skilled team. The unpredictability of the T20 format and the performances of Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, noting that Afghanistan is currently playing well. There is controversy over the team combination, particularly the exclusion of Shreyas Iyer, with selections often decided by selectors and coaches... Afghanistan is seen as a potential challenger to Pakistan, whose current performance and confidence levels are questioned. Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan are considered strong contenders," Lal told ANI.

Opposition threats remain significant for India. Pakistan’s pace attack, Sri Lanka’s balanced unit, and the unpredictable brilliance of Afghanistan and Bangladesh mean India cannot afford complacency. Spin-friendly pitches in the UAE further highlight the importance of Kuldeep’s inclusion, which aligns with Lal’s recommendations.