Is Jaiswal Ahead of Gill for India's Asia Cup Squad?
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Synopsis
Aakash Chopra weighs in on the competition between Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill for a spot in India's Asia Cup squad, highlighting Jaiswal's T20 suitability. With the selection committee's meeting approaching, the pressure mounts to finalize an ideal lineup for the tournament. Who will secure their place?
Key Takeaways
- Aakash Chopra favors Yashasvi Jaiswal over Shubman Gill for the Asia Cup.
- The selection committee is meeting soon to finalize the squad.
- India's batting lineup is strong with established players.
- Choosing a third opener poses significant challenges.
- Performance in T20 cricket is crucial for selection.
New Delhi, Aug 16 (NationPress) Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra asserts that Yashasvi Jaiswal currently holds a slight advantage over Shubman Gill in the competition for a spot in India's squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup. He believes that the left-handed batsman's style aligns better with the T20 format.
The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, is expected to convene on August 19 to finalize India's team for the Asia Cup, scheduled from September 9-28 in the UAE. Both Gill and Jaiswal last participated in a T20I over a year ago, with Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson currently serving as the preferred opening pair.
“It's crucial to have an additional opener available, especially considering that there was no third opener in the previous 15-member squad. We never anticipated that if Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson underperformed, we would need a backup opener. However, it’s essential to have a third opener for the World Cup,” Chopra elaborated.
“Statistically, Yashasvi is marginally ahead of Shubman in T20s. His playing style complements the team’s DNA. Selecting Shubman, who is also the Test captain and ODI vice-captain, only to have him sit on the bench during T20Is wouldn’t look favorable,” he added.
“If the selectors opt for Shubman, they might feel compelled to include him in the playing eleven. While selecting Shubman is an appealing option, I believe Yashasvi has a slight edge in this competition,” Chopra remarked during a recent YouTube session.
Choosing between Gill and Jaiswal could prove challenging for the selectors, particularly when integrating them into a squad that already boasts a solid opening duo in Abhishek and Sanju, alongside Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Rinku Singh, and Hardik Pandya.
There is a possibility of including one of them, but the question remains: at whose expense? “If Shubman is the third opener, do you want him to sit on the bench? And if he plays, who will he replace? If that player is Sanju Samson, who would take on wicketkeeping duties?”
“This poses a dilemma since we don’t typically see Sanju in the middle order. Ideally, he should bat at the top. With Tilak and Surya at numbers three and four, having Sanju at five wouldn’t be ideal. If a fifth batsman is needed, then Jitesh Sharma could be a strong candidate due to his impressive IPL performances,” Chopra concluded.
Point of View
I recognize the importance of balancing team dynamics with individual performances. The selection for the Asia Cup will be critical, and while both Jaiswal and Gill present unique strengths, the decision must align with India's strategic vision for the tournament.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is favored for the Asia Cup squad?
Aakash Chopra suggests Yashasvi Jaiswal has a slight edge over Shubman Gill due to his T20 style.
When will the selection committee meet?
The selection committee is expected to convene on August 19 to finalize the squad for the Asia Cup.
What are the dates for the Asia Cup?
The Asia Cup will take place from September 9 to 28 in the UAE.
Who are the current opening pair for India?
Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson are currently the first-choice opening pair for India.
What challenges do selectors face?
Selectors must decide whether to include Gill or Jaiswal without disrupting the existing batting order.
