The air crackles with anticipation in Indian cricket circles as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) prepares to unveil the 15-member squad for the 2025 ACC Men’s Asia Cup today. All eyes are firmly fixed on Mumbai, where T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav and chief selector Ajit Agarkar will address the media at 1:30 PM IST at the BCCI headquarters. This announcement, setting the stage for the UAE-hosted tournament from September 9-28, carries significant weight, particularly concerning the contentious selection of star batter Shubman Gill.

Who Will Make India’s Final Asia Cup 2025 Cut?

The central drama revolves around Shubman Gill. Despite his undeniable talent and stature, Gill hasn’t seamlessly integrated into India’s recent high-performing T20I setup under Suryakumar’s leadership. His potential inclusion presents a major selection headache, likely forcing the exclusion of an in-form player. Candidates on the bubble include explosive opener Abhishek Sharma, consistent middle-order batsman Tilak Varma, versatile finisher Rinku Singh, or wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson – all of whom have delivered crucial performances in the recent T20I cycle. As reported by the Hindustan Times on August 19, 2025, this “Gill Conundrum” is the defining narrative heading into the announcement.

The selection panel, chaired by Agarkar, is navigating a complex path. They must balance rewarding current form – a principle increasingly emphasized under head coach Gautam Gambhir – with accommodating established talent like Gill, seen as a long-term investment. The decision carries implications beyond just the playing XI, potentially impacting the vice-captaincy, previously held by Gill before Axar Patel deputized in his absence.

Probable Squad Composition and Key Considerations

Based on recent performances, selection trends, and team needs, India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad could shape up as follows:

Top Order: Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill / Yashasvi Jaiswal (only one likely starter), Sanju Samson (WK), Tilak Varma.
Middle Order & Finishers: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Rinku Singh / Shivam Dube, Jitesh Sharma / Dhruv Jurel (backup WK).
All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar (backup).
Pacers: Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Hardik Pandya (third seamer), Harshit Rana / Avesh Khan / Prasidh Krishna (reserve). Senior pacers like Mohammed Siraj are expected to be rested, prioritizing Test cricket.
Spinners: Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy. Despite strong domestic showings, Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravi Bishnoi may miss out.

Injuries and Leadership

Significant absentees include the recovering Rishabh Pant and Nitish Kumar Reddy. KL Rahul, not considered for T20Is since the World Cup, is unlikely to feature. Suryakumar Yadav will lead the side, with the vice-captaincy decision between Gill and Axar Patel being another sensitive call for the selectors to manage.

How to Watch the Squad Announcement Live

Cricket fans can follow the high-stakes squad reveal live:

On TV: Star Sports 1 network.
Online Streaming: Jio Cinema platform.

Must Know: India Asia Cup 2025 Squad Announcement

When is the India Asia Cup 2025 squad being announced?
The squad will be officially unveiled at a press conference today, August 19, 2025, starting at 1:30 PM IST. Delays are possible if the selection meeting runs long.
Where is the Asia Cup 2025 squad announcement happening?
The announcement will be made at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai, India.
Where can I watch the India squad announcement live?
The press conference will be broadcast live on the Star Sports 1 TV channel and streamed online via the Jio Cinema app and website.
What is the biggest selection dilemma for Asia Cup 2025?
The primary debate surrounds the inclusion of Shubman Gill and which in-form player (like Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma, or Rinku Singh) might be left out to accommodate him.
Who are confirmed absentees from India’s Asia Cup squad?
Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy are ruled out due to injuries. KL Rahul is also unlikely to be selected for the T20 format.

The unveiling of India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad marks a critical juncture, revealing the selectors’ vision and setting the tone for the continental championship. The resolution of the Shubman Gill puzzle and the overall balance chosen will be dissected by millions. Tune in at 1:30 PM IST today to discover the chosen fifteen tasked with bringing the Asia Cup trophy home.