The upcoming Asia Cup 2025, commencing on September 9th, is a highly anticipated event. The Indian team’s composition is a topic of intense discussion, with fans eagerly awaiting the squad announcement. The BCCI’s selection panel, led by chief selector Ajit Agarkar, will soon reveal the team. A recent report indicates that Rinku Singh, the Kolkata Knight Riders’ key finisher, who was retained for 13 crore rupees, might be omitted from the Asia Cup 2025 team.
Singh has consistently delivered for India. The Asia Cup 2025 will be a T20 tournament, and Singh’s record in this format is notable. He has scored 546 runs in 33 matches, averaging 42, with three half-centuries, and a best score of 69 not out. He has demonstrated his effectiveness as a finisher for both the Kolkata Knight Riders and India. Despite his consistent performance, there are indications that he might not be included in the team.
Several young players have recently showcased impressive batting in the T20 format. The Indian Premier League 2025 also highlighted numerous young players. Singh’s international T20 experience is valuable, but the team management might consider alternative finishers.
A former selector suggested that Shubman Gill’s potential inclusion in the Asia Cup 2025 squad is linked to his captaincy roles in the Test team and with Gujarat Titans in the IPL. This raises the question of whether Gill will replace Singh, creating a selection dilemma, as Gill typically plays in the top order, and Singh is a specialist finisher.
India has limited options for the finisher position. Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel are the other potential choices, apart from Singh. If Singh is not selected, Shivam Dube or Jitesh Sharma may need to step into the finisher’s role.
Singh’s performance in the Indian Premier League 2025 was not as strong as expected. He scored 206 runs in 13 matches at an average of 29.43, with a top score of 38 not out. His form also dipped in the 2024 season, with only 168 runs in 15 matches for Kolkata and a high score of 26. The Indian selectors will have to make a critical decision on Singh’s inclusion, given his importance to the team.