Asia Cup 2025: Suryakumar Yadav under fire as Shubman Gill’s rise puts captaincy in spotlight
Suryakumar Yadav’s dip in form sparks debate over his leadership ahead of the Asia Cup 2025, while Shubman Gill’s growing stature as vice-captain fuels captaincy talk.
Last Updated: 02.34 PM, Sep 08, 2025
The upcoming Asia Cup 2025 is set to be more than just a contest between nations, it could also determine the leadership future of Indian cricket. At the center of the storm is Suryakumar Yadav, India’s current T20I captain, who is under scrutiny due to his faltering numbers. Adding to the intrigue is the steady rise of Shubman Gill, India’s young batting star, who has been elevated as vice-captain across formats.
Once considered India’s most explosive batter in the shortest format, Suryakumar’s record as skipper has not matched expectations. Since taking charge, he has managed just 558 runs in 22 matches, a clear dip when compared to his stellar 2,040 runs in 61 T20Is at an average of 43.4 under Rohit Sharma’s leadership. His struggles were magnified earlier this year, when he scored only 28 runs in five T20Is against England, raising questions about whether captaincy responsibilities are affecting his natural flair at the crease.
"His numbers dropping (while leading India) is a worry. Him not getting the runs is a concern. In the last few internationals he played, he was looking to score mostly behind square on the leg side. His shot selection was not up to the mark. But he has since worked on his game, and as we saw, he was a completely different player in the IPL," Wasim Jaffer told Times of India.
In contrast, Shubman Gill’s career graph is pointing upward. He not only captains the Test side but also returns to the T20I setup as vice-captain for the Asia Cup. Selectors see him as a long-term leadership option, someone who combines calm temperament with consistent performances. Gill’s presence as deputy creates healthy competition but also signals a potential transition phase in India’s white-ball cricket.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has so far resisted calls for immediate change, keeping faith in Suryakumar for the Asia Cup. However, insiders suggest that Gill could be next in line to take over should Surya’s batting slump continue. This makes the Asia Cup not only crucial for India’s title hopes but also a defining test for Suryakumar’s future as leader.
As India chase continental glory, two narratives run parallel: Can Suryakumar silence critics with the bat while guiding India deep into the tournament? And will Shubman Gill further enhance his reputation as a captain-in-waiting? The Asia Cup may provide the answers, and possibly redefine the leadership roadmap of Indian cricket.