Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has backed Shubman Gill’s selection in India’s 15-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. Gill, who has been named vice-captain, is making his return to the T20I side after a year.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif underlined Gill’s leadership qualities, which were on display during the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. He also praised Gill’s captaincy in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 for Gujarat Titans (GT).
“Why was he made vice-captain? It’s because he has leadership qualities,” Kaif said. “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.”
Gill had an excellent IPL 2025 season, scoring 650 runs for GT at a strike rate of 155.87. Across the last three IPL editions, he has accumulated 1966 runs, further proving his consistency. Kaif believes Gill’s form with the bat has been just as important as his leadership in earning him a spot for the Asia Cup.
“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,” Kaif concluded.
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