India’s path to finalising its Asia Cup 2025 squad has become a headache for the selectors. With plenty of batting options in form, the middle-order has become the biggest talking point. Players such as Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube and Jitesh Sharma are all in the mix, but only a few will make it to the final squad.
According to reports, the selectors are looking at a balanced side where flexibility will matter more than reputation. Senior names like Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson are certain to be retained, while youngsters like Tilak Varma and Abhishek Sharma have strong cases after consistent T20 performances.
The squeeze is being felt most by Rinku Singh. Once seen as India’s designated finisher, his place is under pressure. He has not scored enough in recent Indian Premier League (IPL) seasons, which weakens his case compared to players who can bat higher or double up with the ball.
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Indian Batters in the Mix for Asia Cup 2025
Tilak Varma has been in excellent form and has already proved that he can be the X-factor in T20 cricket. His ability to roll over his arms makes him a valuable option. Suryakumar Yadav, now leading India in the format, remains the most important batter in the middle-order. Sanju Samson is expected to retain his place as wicket-keeper in the opening slot with Jitesh Sharma offering back-up.
Rinku's place is under threat. He made his reputation as a powerful finisher but his slump in form in IPL 2024 and 2025 has gone against him.Â
Shivam Dube is another contender. His big-hitting against spin and medium-pace bowling give India more balance. Abhishek Sharma has also forced his way into contention with explosive starts at the top of the order. According to reports, he is expected to continue as an opener along with Samson. This means the team management will have to choose one between Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal.
Hardik Pandya is a certainty and he will be seen in the Indian jersey for the first time since the Champions Trophy 2025 final. Axar Patel is another all-rounder who makes India’s middle-order.
Why Rinku Singh May Miss Out?
Rinku’s chances are slim mainly because India already have a solid top five. With Suryakumar, Tilak, Samson and Pandya filling most of the middle-order spots, there is little space left for a specialist finisher.Â
The team management wants players who can contribute in more than one role, which puts Rinku at risk of being left out.
