Asia-Cup-Squad-UpdateBumrah-Returns,-Gill-Eyeing-Vice-Captaincy

Jasprit Bumrah Set to Lead India’s Bowling Attack, Providing a Crucial Boost for Asia Cup

According to recent reports, the Colts will get a considerable boost with star pacer Jasprit Bumrah joining the Asia Cup squad. Until now, there have been speculations about workload management since he appeared in a recent test series.

Good, the BCCI's Sports Science cell kept a watch on his fitness. For the Asia Cup, a key preparatory tournament for the T20 World Cup, he is deemed essential to aid the team in their journey.

Gill Likely to Regain Vice-Captaincy Role

While strengthening the bowling side, another significant change is expected in the team's vice-captaincy. Shubman Gill, having enjoyed an immensely successful stint as captain and batter in the Test series recently, stands a good chance of taking over this position.

If it does happen, this will change from the last T20I series against England when Axar Patel undertook vice-captaincy duties.

The panel under Ajit Agarkar has to strike a balance between form and continuity. Gill held the deputy's post the first time Suryakumar Yadav was appointed full-time T20I captain, and his reinstatement would thus mean returning to the status quo. 

Several other dilemmas lie in selecting the final squad, expected to be announced by August 19 or 20. The top order is tight, with the likes of Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma, and Hardik Pandya forming strong cores.

The formidable form of players like Shubman Gill and many in the IPL makes it difficult for selectors to accommodate everyone. It may mean a wait for players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal to take their turn.

Who Will Secure Third Pacer Spot?

With Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh being sure picks, the third pacer spot is a bigger competition between Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana. Both had splendid outings in the last season of the IPL, making the choice difficult for selectors!

The spin department will likely feature Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, with a choice between Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy. The squad is being carefully formulated to achieve a perfect mix of seasoned campaigners and fresh talent, with the enormous task of taking on Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the imminent tournament.