As the Asia Cup 2025 approaches, cricket experts have started sharing their preferred line-ups for the Indian team. Former cricketer and now a renowned analyst, Aakash Choprarecently revealed his ideal playing XI for the tournament on his YouTube channel. His selection sparked debate, especially with the exclusion of a star wicketkeeper-batter, who has been in and out of India’s white-ball squads.

Aakash Chopra’s India XI for Asia Cup 2025

Opening combination

Chopra opted for a youthful and aggressive opening pair. He backed Abhishek Sharma to open alongside Shubman Gillwho has been named India’s vice-captain for the tournament. The analyst made it clear that Samson couldn’t find a spot in his XI primarily because of Gill’s leadership role and guaranteed place in the top order. According to Chopra, the Gill-Abhishek duo provides the right mix of composure and explosiveness at the start of the innings.

Middle-order firepower

In the middle order, Chopra slotted in Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak sure at No. 3 and 4. Both batters have showcased versatility and the ability to accelerate in pressure situations, making them strong choices for India’s batting core. Chopra explained that either of the two could adjust positions depending on the match scenario.

Hardik PandyaIndia’s seasoned all-rounder, found his place at No. 5. Chopra emphasized Pandya’s dual role as a power-hitter and a medium-pace bowler, which adds balance to the side. Following him, Jitesh sharma was named as the wicketkeeper-batter at No. 6. Known for his aggressive style in franchise cricket, Jitesh has been rewarded in Chopra’s XI for his ability to finish games.

All-round depth

Chopra continued his selection with Shivam Dubewho has gained prominence as a left-handed power-hitter and a handy medium-pace option. He even suggested promoting Dube up the order in case India required a left-hander during a chase.

Axar Patel was picked at No. 8, bringing all-round depth to the line-up. Chopra praised Axar for his ability to rescue innings in case of a batting collapse and also highlighted his bowling flexibility, particularly his effectiveness in the powerplay overs.

Lethal bowling attack

The bowling unit in Chopra’s XI included a mix of pace and spin. Jasprit bumrah was the automatic choice as the spearhead of the attack, partnered by left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singhwho has become a regular feature in India’s white-ball setup with his death-over skills.

For the spin department, Chopra backed Varun Chakaravarthy as his specialist mystery spinner. He underlined Varun’s wicket-taking ability, particularly against right-handers, making him an important inclusion in subcontinent conditions.

No Place for Sanju Samson

One of the most striking aspects of Chopra’s XI was the absence of Sanja Samson. Despite being in contention as a wicketkeeper-batter in India’s white-ball setup, Samson was overlooked in favor of Jitesh. Chopra clarified that Gill’s role as vice-captain ensured his permanent slot at the top of the order, leaving no room to accommodate Samson. While Samson has often been praised for his stroke-making ability, inconsistency has worked against him in team selections, and Chopra’s XI once again highlights the stiff competition for places in India’s batting order.

Aakash Chopra’s India XI for Asia Cup 2025: Abhishek Sharma, Shuman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Jitesh Sharma, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh