Asia Cup 2025: Ajinkya Rahane's Selected Playing XI Excludes Sanju Samson

Asia Cup 2025: Team India's Campaign Begins

Asia Cup 2025: Team India is set to kick off its campaign on September 10, with their first match against the UAE at the Dubai International Stadium. Captain Surya Kumar Yadav will lead the team, with Shubman Gill serving as the vice-captain. A significant question arises regarding the playing eleven from the 15-member squad announced for the Asia Cup. Notably, the former captain of Team India has selected his playing eleven, notably leaving out wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson.

Ajinkya Rahane's Chosen Playing XI for Team India

Recently, Ajinkya Rahane announced his decision to step down as captain of Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy, sharing his thoughts on social media. Now, he has revealed his preferred playing eleven for the Asia Cup 2025. Rahane has opted for Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma as the opening pair. Following them, Tilak Varma is placed at number three, and captain Surya Kumar Yadav at number four. Hardik Pandya is selected for the fifth position, while wicketkeeper-batsman Jitesh Sharma is included instead of Sanju Samson.

Rahane's Bowling Line-up

For the bowling department, Rahane has included Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh as fast bowlers. Additionally, Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel are chosen as spin bowlers. According to Rahane, either Harshit Rana or Varun Chakravarthy could secure a spot in the playing eleven.

Rahane's Selected Playing XI

Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Surya Kumar Yadav (Captain), Hardik Pandya, Jitesh Sharma (Wicketkeeper), Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy/Harshit Rana.