Asia Cup Squad 2025

India heads into the Asia Cup 2025 with a reshaped lineup. Suryakumar Yadav will lead the side, with Shubman Gill as vice-captain. The squad features Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakaravarthy. The inclusion of Rinku Singh and Harshit Rana  drew attention, with some linking it to Gautam Gambhir’s growing role. On the other hand, the absence of Shreyas Iyer and Yashasvi Jaiswal stirred debate and claims of bias. Despite selection disputes, the group looks balanced with bold batters, versatile all-rounders, and seasoned bowlers. India has already lifted the trophy eight times, more than any other side. Their brightest star is Jasprit Bumrah, rated the best T20 bowler in the world, famous for deadly yorkers and clutch spells at the death.

Pakistan surprised many by naming Salman Ali Agha as captain. The squad includes Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Nawaz, Saim Ayub, and Shaheen Afridi. The most shocking news was the omission of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, dividing fans between those who view it as progress and those who see it as a loss of experience. The squad mixes established names with rising players in search of balance. Pakistan has won the Asia Cup twice and remains India’s fiercest rival. Their key weapon is Shaheen Afridi, a left-arm pacer feared for dismantling batting orders early with the new ball.

Afghanistan once again carries the tag of being the tournament’s “dark horse”. Rashid Khan leads a squad capable of altering games through his bowling alone. The batting core features Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, and Darwish Rasooli, while Mohammad Nabi adds valuable experience. The spin trio of Rashid, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Noor Ahmad is among the strongest units in the competition. Combining fearless batting and world-class spinners, Afghanistan can challenge any opponent. Though they have not yet won the Asia Cup, their regular Super Four appearances show their growing strength. Rashid Khan remains their star, one of cricket’s finest leg-spinners who also provides dangerous lower-order runs.

Bangladesh enters under the captaincy of Litton Das. The squad includes Tanzid Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, and Mustafizur Rahman, with Quazi Nurul Hasan Sohan making a return after three years. The lineup blends ambitious young talent with experienced figures. Mustafizur and Taskin Ahmed spearhead the bowling, while Litton and Hridoy steady the batting. Bangladesh has played in three Asia Cup finals but has yet to claim a title. Mustafizur Rahman, famed for sharp cutters and key wickets under pressure, is the standout name.

Sri Lanka looks to regain its past dominance under Charith Asalanka’s leadership. The squad features Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, and Pathum Nissanka. The spin department, led by Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, promises trouble for opponents, while Dushmantha Chameera and Matheesha Pathirana bring pace and firepower. With six titles already, Sri Lanka is the second-most successful side in the tournament. Wanindu Hasaranga, one of the world’s leading all-rounders, shines as the key figure, equally threatening with both bat and ball.

Oman’s debut in the Asia Cup 2025 is a landmark moment. Led by Jatinder Singh, the team combines homegrown players with those carrying international exposure. While seen as underdogs, debutant sides often spring surprises. Players like Hammad Mirza and Aamir Kaleem have the skill to challenge more vigorous opponents. Oman had previously competed in qualifiers but never reached the main draw until now. Their main hope lies in Jatinder Singh, a consistent batter and respected leader.

Hosts UAE, guided by Muhammad Waseem, approach the competition with ambition. The squad features Alishan Sharafu, Asif Khan, and Aryansh Sharma, alongside seasoned names such as Junaid Siddique and Muhammad Jawadullah. Though they lack big global stars, they will count on unity and strong local support in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. In past qualifiers, the UAE has troubled bigger teams, and they now aim to leave a mark on the main stage. Their standout player is Muhammad Waseem, an explosive opener who can score rapid fifties against any bowling attack. 

Hong Kong, led by Yasir Murtaza, enters as an outsider but carries its own style. The team includes Babar Hayat, Anshuman Rath, and Kinchit Shah, who bring experience and creativity. Known for its diverse mix of players, the squad reflects the region’s unique identity. Hong Kong has played in four Asia Cups, nearly stunning India in 2018. Their main hope is Babar Hayat, a forceful batter who often drives the team’s scoring almost single-handedly.