As India gears up for the Asia Cup 2025 in the UAE, the selection committee’s decision to bring back Shubman Gill into the T20I fold and name him vice-captain has sparked debate.
Former India batter Robin Uthappa has questioned the move, suggesting that the selectors may have created “an issue for themselves” by reinstating Gill in the shortest format.
Gill, 25, last played a T20I in July 2024 during India’s tour of Sri Lanka, a series that also marked the beginning of Gautam Gambhir’s tenure as India’s head coach. His return for the continental tournament follows a stellar year in international cricket, including a successful stint as India’s Test captain in England earlier this summer.
Uthappa’s Criticism
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Uthappa gave a blunt assessment:
“They have caused an issue for themselves by bringing Shubman into this whole process of including him in T20 cricket. But I also think from an Indian cricket perspective, in all eras, there have always been superstars who were backed for the sake of Indian cricket. That narrative continues now.”
The 2007 T20 World Cup winner further suggested that Gill’s recall was not just a cricketing decision but also influenced by marketing and business factors.
“The marketing and business narrative also takes precedence, and that is also a part of why he has been brought in. You want certain superstars to take the game forward. Shubman is going to be one of them,” Uthappa added.
Gill’s Recent Form
Gill has been in red-hot form this year. In the IPL 2025, he led Gujarat Titans’ batting lineup, amassing 650 runs in 15 matches at an average of 50 and a strike rate of 155.88, including six half-centuries. He finished as the fourth-highest run-getter of the tournament.
India’s Asia Cup Campaign
The Asia Cup 2025 will kick off on September 9 in the UAE. Defending champions India will begin their campaign a day later against the hosts, UAE, in Group A, which also features Pakistan and Oman.
Gill’s leadership role alongside captain Hardik Pandya will be closely watched, as India looks to balance youth, experience, and star power in its pursuit of another continental title.
