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With the Asia Cup 2025 around the corner, the Indian selectors face a key decision that has sparked intense debate among fans and experts: who should be named as the reserve opener — Yashasvi Jaiswal or Shubman Gill? Both youngsters have showcased immense promise, but with Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma expected to open, the third-choice slot has become a crucial talking point.
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s rise: A left-handed option for Team balance
Yashasvi has been one of the brightest success stories in Indian cricket over the past two years. The left-handed opener has added freshness to India’s top-order with his fearless batting style and ability to dominate both pace and spin. His memorable innings in overseas Tests, along with consistent performances in the IPL, have cemented his reputation as a long-term prospect for all formats.
One major factor working in Jaiswal’s favour is his left-handedness. India’s top order has traditionally leaned heavily on right-handers like Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya. Jaiswal, with his natural aggression and left-hand advantage, offers variety as well as the ability to unsettle opposition bowlers who prefer consistent angles. Moreover, his performances in Asian conditions — including rapid starts in the powerplay — could prove decisive in matches where early momentum matters.
Selectors also see Jaiswal as someone who thrives in pressure situations. His heroics in the recent Test tour of England and run-scoring feats in the IPL add weight to his claim. If India aims to build a left-right combination that unsettles rivals from the beginning, Jaiswal stands as a compelling choice.
Shubman Gill’s experience and consistency make him a strong contender
On the other hand, Shubman Gill brings in experience, calmness, and proven consistency across formats. Often described as the “next big thing” in Indian cricket, Gill has already played significant innings in major tournaments and series. His last two seasons with the bat can be highlighted by several centuries across formats.
Unlike Jaiswal, Gill has been in and out of India’s starting XI in limited-overs cricket, largely because of the wealth of openers available. Yet, his impeccable timing against fast bowling, ability to build long innings, and temperament under pressure make him a dependable option. With Samson inconsistent with the bat, many experts believe Gill must continue to be groomed as India’s permanent opener in multi-nation tournaments.
Gill’s experience in subcontinental conditions is another strong point. He has demonstrated the ability to anchor innings in ODIs and accelerate when required, a balance that might give him the edge in high-stakes tournament matches against strong Asian rivals such as Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
Also READ: 3 reasons why Yashasvi Jaiswal deserves a spot in India’s T20I squad for Asia Cup 2025
Who holds the edge to find a place in India’s Asia Cup squad?
The debate ultimately boils down to what the selectors and team management value at this stage — stability or variety. Jaiswal provides the attacking left-handed dynamic that can break open games, while Gill brings steadiness, proven adaptability, and a long-term vision as a future leader.
Given the Asia Cup’s significance as a precursor to bigger tournaments, India may weigh Gill’s recent form against Jaiswal’s fearless batting. If the strategy is to add firepower in the middle overs after powerplay dominance, Jaiswal might get the nod. However, if selectors prioritize left-handedness, Jaiswal edges slightly ahead.
The final call remains with the Indian selectors, but one thing is certain: both Gill and Jaiswal represent the next wave of Indian cricket, and whoever sits out won’t stay on the sidelines for long.
Also READ: ACC unveils full schedule for Asia Cup 2025, India vs Pakistan clash set for September 14
