Mohammed Kaif has backed the decision to include Shubman Gill in the Asia Cup 2025 squad as the vice-captain of the Indian team. Gill, who last played a T20I in July 2024, sparked debate as the Indian batting order seemed set with Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson at the top.

While chief selector Ajit Agarkar hinted that Gill’s inclusion will finally depend on the call made by the captain and coach, many feel that he will open the batting with Abhishek Sharma at the top. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif said that the 25-year-old was made the vice-captain because of his leadership qualities, which were on show during the England tour. The former cricketer also said that Gill did well as the skipper of GT during IPL 2025, when he led them to the play-offs.

“Why was he made vice-captain? It’s because he has leadership qualities. We saw in England that he led brilliantly, levelled the series at 2-2. He scored runs with the bat. The selectors, especially Ajit Agarkar, once quoted that they go to the dressing room and talk with the players about how Gill is leading the team for Gujarat. This (comment) was made during IPL. The way Gill worked with the Gujarat Titans there was great news. Everyone praised him. Gill, the leader, performed excellently,” said Kaif.

“What will be the playing XI? Who will bowl when, and he looked good tactically as well. This was Agarkar’s point of view, and after that, the team was made for the Test match. Gill was made captain for the England tour, and of course, it’s praiseworthy because I saw him closely in the IPL.”

‘No lack in any area’

Kaif pointed out that Gill is a consistent run-maker, saying that he has scored nearly 2000 runs over the last three seasons of the IPL. The former cricketer also said Gill has a good strike-rate and he doesn’t see issues in any area at the moment with the Indian vice-captain.

“He led brilliantly, and his bat never stops. If you look at his performance in IPL over the last three years, he has scored nearly 2000 runs. The strike rate is in 150s. So, there is no lack in any area. See, the selectors always keep in mind IPL’s performance,” said Kaif.

Over the last three seasons, Gill has scored 1966 runs in the IPL, with his strike-rate in 2023 and 2025 being over 155. The Asia Cup campaign for India begins on September 10, with their clash against UAE.

– Ends

Tune In