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As the Asia Cup 2025 draws near, all eyes are on Team India and how they will line up in their opening clash . With the tournament being played in the T20 format in the UAE, conditions, form, and balance will play a key role in shaping India’s playing XI. Let’s look at the most probable lineup the selectors and management could opt for. Openers: Yashasvi Jaiswal & Rohit Sharma A left-right combination at the top has worked well for India , and Jaiswal’s fearless approach complements Rohit’s experience perfectly. While Jaiswal provides explosive starts, Rohit’s ability to anchor innings will be crucial in pressure games. Middle Order: Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav & Rishabh Pant (wk) Virat Kohli remains the backbone of India’s batting, steadying the innings and guiding chases. Alongside him, Suryakumar Yadav brings innovation and flair, especially in the middle overs. Rishabh Pant , with his aggressive intent and left-handed advantage, adds depth and unpredictability to the b...

With the Asia Cup 2025 around the corner, the focus has shifted from squad announcement to India’s probable playing XI. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar’s recent comments have sparked speculation about Sanju Samson’s chances of making it into the starting lineup. While Samson is part of the squad, his role in the tournament opener seems uncertain. Agarkar’s Subtle Hint During a press interaction, Agarkar emphasized the importance of “experience and balance” in the playing XI. He highlighted the form of senior players like Rohit Sharma , Virat Kohli , and Rishabh Pant , noting how their presence brings stability. Though he didn’t directly name Samson, many believe these remarks suggested that Pant is being preferred as the first-choice wicketkeeper, leaving Samson on the sidelines. Samson’s Position in the Squad Sanju Samson has always been seen as a stylish batter with the ability to play match-winning knocks. However, consistency has been his biggest challenge at the international leve...

The announcement of India’s squad for the upcoming Women’s World Cup has taken the cricketing world by surprise. Fans were eagerly waiting to see the names that would represent the country on the global stage, but the final list has brought a mix of excitement, shock, and heated debates among experts and supporters alike. One of the biggest twists came with the inclusion of a young, uncapped player who has been making waves in domestic cricket. Her consistent performances and fearless approach earned her a maiden World Cup call-up, showing the selectors’ willingness to back fresh talent. This move highlights India’s intent to balance experience with youth, preparing not only for the present tournament but also for the future of women’s cricket . At the same time, the omission of a few seasoned campaigners has raised eyebrows. These players have been instrumental in India’s journey in past tournaments, and their absence will certainly be felt. While the reasons may vary—form, fitness, ...

The India vs England Test series has already been a thrilling spectacle, and the spotlight in the 4th Test at Manchester firmly belonged to Shubman Gill . The young Indian batter produced a sublime century under challenging conditions, guiding India to a strong position. Gill’s knock was not only crucial for the team but also etched his name in the record books. Here are five records he broke with his memorable century . 1. Youngest Indian Batter to Score a Century at Old Trafford With his ton, Gill became the youngest Indian to register a Test century at Old Trafford, surpassing records held by some of India’s legendary batsmen. His calmness and stroke play against a world-class attack showcased maturity beyond his years. 2. Fastest Indian Century in England in the Last Decade Gill’s hundred came at an impressive strike rate, making it the fastest by an Indian batter in England in the last 10 years. His aggressive yet calculated approach helped India keep the scoreboard ticking agai...

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan didn’t hold back when weighing in on Rohit Sharma’s recent struggles. In candid remarks, Pathan made a striking observation: Had Rohit not been leading the side, his form in Test cricket last year might not have earned him a spot in the playing XI. A Tough Run with the Bat Rohit’s numbers in 2024 were far from impressive—just 164 runs across eight Tests and a paltry tour average of 6.20 in Australia. Pathan argued that, based purely on these numbers, a selector prioritizing form would likely have left him out. The only thing tipping the scales in Rohit’s favor? His captaincy badge. Backing While Being Critical Pathan also reflected on the broadcaster-player dynamics during post-match interviews. He revealed how praise is often tempered with politeness—especially when emphasizing a guest’s struggles. He admitted that the support shown on air was partially driven by courtesy. Behind the scenes, though, opinions remained clear: “If he wasn’t the c...

In a candid and compelling revelation, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan stirred the cricketing world by asserting that Rohit Sharma might not have held onto his spot in the Test team if not for his captaincy mantle. A Captain Under Fire Pathan’s comments zero in on one of the most trying phases of Rohit's recent career . He highlighted Rohit’s dismal form during the 2024–25 Test season , where the veteran mustered a mere 164 runs across eight matches , managing just one half-century. More alarmingly, on Australia’s challenging soil, his average plummeted to 6.20 , the lowest ever recorded by a visiting captain in Australia (with a minimum of five innings). Reflecting on the post-match broadcast during the Sydney Test, Pathan admitted that while he and his fellow commentators were expected to publicly back Rohit, their candid assessment was clear: “if he was not the captain, he would not have had a place in the team.” What It Reveals About Selection Pressure These assertions...

With the Asia Cup 2025 fast approaching, cricket fans are eagerly speculating on who will make it to India’s final squad. Given the tournament’s importance as both a prestigious trophy and a preparation stage for bigger ICC events, the selectors will likely aim for a perfect mix of experience and youthful energy. Top-Order Batters Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill are expected to open the innings, providing stability and explosiveness at the top. Virat Kohli , still a match-winner in crunch situations, should slot in at No. 3, anchoring the innings when needed. Middle-Order Options The middle order could see a blend of proven performers and rising stars. Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav offer aggression and versatility, while KL Rahul is likely to play the dual role of wicketkeeper and dependable batter. All-Rounders All-round balance will be key in a multi-team tournament. Hardik Pandya remains India’s first-choice pace-bowling all-rounder, while Ravindra Jadeja provides spin, fi...