As anticipation builds for the Asia Cup 2025 in the UAE, renowned commentator Harsha Bhogle has named his ideal 15-member India squad. His picks balance current form, experience, and tactical flexibility, sparking conversations among fans about India’s best possible combination ahead of the marquee event.
Explosive Top Order
Bhogle has placed his faith in the young duo of Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma, who have been in red-hot T20 form. Suryakumar Yadav, India’s T20I skipper, is a certainty at No. 4, while Shreyas Iyer, fresh off a brilliant IPL 2025 with Punjab Kings, adds solidity and his proven ability to counter spin.
Wicketkeeping Options
For the wicketkeeper’s slot, Bhogle has gone with Sanju Samson as the first-choice, with the possibility of him opening the innings. Jitesh Sharma, who impressed with RCB in IPL 2025, has been chosen as the backup option thanks to his finishing skills and consistent T20I performances.
Powerful All-Round Department
All-round balance is a key feature of Bhogle’s squad. Hardik Pandya provides finishing firepower, while Axar Patel and Washington Sundar add depth with both bat and ball. Their versatility ensures India has multiple bowling and batting options in any condition.
Pace Attack Led by Bumrah
In the pace department, Bhogle’s obvious first choice is Jasprit Bumrah, the spearhead of India’s bowling unit. Arshdeep Singh offers left-arm variety, and Prasidh Krishna adds extra pace and bounce, giving India a strong mix of bowling options.
Spin Variety
Bhogle has gone for three spinners, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, and Varun Chakravarthy, each capable of providing breakthroughs in the middle overs. Their contrasting styles give India flexibility against different opponents in subcontinental conditions.
Harsha Bhogle’s Ideal Asia Cup 2025 Squad
Openers: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson
Middle Order: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Tilak Varma, Shreyas Iyer
WICKETKEPER (Backup): Jitesh Sharma
All-Rounders: Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar
Pacers: Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna
Spinners: Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakravarthy
