Jitesh Sharma Returns to India's T20I Squad for Asia Cup 2025, Set to Compete Against UAE

Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s star cricketer Jitesh Sharma has earned a recall to India’s T20I squad for the Asia Cup 2025 after almost 20 months. The continental tournament, which will feature eight teams, is set to be played in the UAE across Dubai and Abu Dhabi from September 9 to 28. Sharma, who last played for India in 2023, now looks primed for a comeback as the preferred wicketkeeper in the high-profile tournament.

Jitesh Ahead of Sanju Samson?

According to a report by RevSportz, Jitesh Sharma appears to be ahead of Sanju Samson in the pecking order for the wicketkeeper’s role. During India’s training session on Friday, Sharma was seen donning the wicketkeeping gloves, taking part in drills and practice sessions, while Samson was engaged in high catching and throwdowns. The footage from the session has fueled speculation that the team management is leaning towards Jitesh as the first-choice wicketkeeper for the Asia Cup.

Sharma’s T20I Record So Far

The 31-year-old wicketkeeper-batter from Maharashtra has represented India in nine T20Is, where he has impressed with his aggressive batting style and sharp glovework. Known for his ability to score quick runs in the lower middle order, Sharma could provide India with the balance needed in pressure games, especially against strong opponents like Pakistan. His recall signals that the selectors and the management are keen to reward his consistent domestic and IPL performances.

Role of Sanju Samson

While Sanju Samson remains part of the squad, the current indications suggest that he may play a backup role in the tournament. Samson’s superior fielding skills and batting versatility keep him in contention, but the decision to have Sharma take wicketkeeping duties in practice could mean the management has already made its choice for the starting lineup. Samson, however, could still feature in the playing XI as a specialist batter if the team chooses to strengthen the middle order.

Tilak Varma and Abhishek Sharma’s Added Responsibility

The Indian team’s training session also revealed another tactical move. Tilak Varma and Abhishek Sharma, apart from their batting duties, were spotted rolling their arms over in the nets. Both players have been occasionally used as part-time bowlers in the past, and given the spin-friendly conditions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, their role could prove vital. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav may look to utilise them to provide crucial breakthroughs or ease the workload of the main bowlers.

Tournament Format and Group Stage Matches

India’s Asia Cup 2025 campaign will kick off on September 10 against the United Arab Emirates at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The marquee clash against arch-rivals Pakistan is scheduled for September 14 at the same venue. Following that, India will travel to Abu Dhabi for their final Group A fixture against Oman on September 19.

If India finishes in the top two of Group A, they will progress to the Super Fours, where they will play one match each against the two top teams from Group B and one against the other Group A qualifier. The two best-performing teams in the Super Fours will advance to the grand finale on September 28.

Suryakumar Yadav’s Leadership Test

This Asia Cup will also be an important test for Suryakumar Yadav, who is leading India in the T20I format. His captaincy will be scrutinised, particularly in managing batting resources and bowling options in conditions that traditionally favour spinners. Balancing the roles of experienced players with emerging talent like Tilak and Abhishek will be crucial to India’s campaign.

High Stakes for India

For India, the Asia Cup 2025 is not just about continental supremacy but also a preparatory ground ahead of the T20 World Cup next year. The return of Jitesh Sharma, the form of Suryakumar Yadav as captain, and the performances of young all-rounders will all be under the spotlight. Fans will be eagerly awaiting the India vs Pakistan showdown, which could set the tone for the tournament.