Former India cricketer Virender Sehwag has not named the new India T20I vice-captain, Shubman Gill, in his choices for three game changers for the Men in Blue in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 tournament. India is placed in Group A alongside the UAE, Pakistan, and Oman. India will begin its campaign on September 10 against the UAE.
The Indian squad was announced on August 19, and despite some disagreements about selections, the Indian team has some big names like Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Sanju Samson, and Kuldeep Yadav.
Before the Asia Cup 2025, former India opener Virender Sehwag identified three individuals who may be game changers for Team India. Sehwag chose pacer Jasprit Bumrah, young, aggressive opener Abhishek Sharma, and mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy.
"I think Abhishek Sharma can be a game-changer. Bumrah is always a game-changer. Varun Chakravarthy, with his mystery bowling, was very effective in the Champions Trophy and in the T20 format as well. So, these are some game changers for India who can win matches on their own," said Sehwag on Sony Sports.
Jasprit Bumrah’s workload management was one of the talking points during India’s England tour recently. Bumrah played only three Tests, with Mohammed Siraj leading the pace attack in all five Tests.
Sehwag also discussed whether workload management had much value in sports. He believes it is not as important for batters as it is for bowlers, particularly speedsters.
"I think workload is important, especially for bowlers. For batsmen, I don't think workload is a problem, since they can play and don't have to play too many matches anyway. So, I think it's important mainly for bowlers, especially fast bowlers.
If they are managed properly, they can play for a longer time. For India, it's important that all fast bowlers stay fit, because in big events like the Asia Cup or World Cup, if they are available, India's chances of winning will be higher," he added.
The Asia Cup 2025 will begin on September 9, with India taking on Pakistan on September 14 in Dubai.
(ANI inputs)
