'Gill's form in England exceeded expectations' - Agarkar on Team India's vice-captaincy

India’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar has clarified some key decisions made during the announcement of the Asia Cup 2025 T20 squad, particularly the omission of Shreyas Iyer and the appointment of Shubman Gill as vice-captain. Despite Iyer’s strong showing, including a half-century against Australia in December 2023, Agarkar explained that the final squad composition left little room for him. “With regards to Shreyas, I mean, you need to tell him who he can replace. No fault of his, nor is it ours. It is just that we have to pick 15 at the moment, he will have to wait for his chance,” Agarkar said.

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One of the major talking points was Gill’s promotion as vice-captain under Suryakumar Yadav, replacing Axar Patel. Agarkar praised Gill’s recent performances, particularly during the England series, where he exceeded expectations.

“Gill’s form in England was something we expected but he exceeded it all. There are more options for the top order now and Shubman has been in great form anyway. When they get to Dubai, they can decide on the playing XI according to the opposition and the conditions,” he noted.

Agarkar also reminded that Gill had previously served as vice-captain after the last T20 World Cup, suggesting the move had been in the works for some time.

“Now that he is available, at least Suryakumar has two options. It is their headache to pick the batting lineup. Ours was to pick the 15 and we have got real depth in T20 cricket,” he added. On the absence of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Agarkar said it was an unfortunate call but highlighted that Abhishek Sharma’s inclusion was influenced by his ability to contribute with the ball. The Asia Cup 2025 begins on September 9 in the UAE, with India entering the tournament under Suryakumar’s leadership and Gill as his deputy.