Mon Aug 18 14:08:03 UTC 2025: **Headline: Harbhajan Singh Announces Bold Asia Cup Squad, Snubs Samson and Varma, Includes Gill Despite Doubts**

**New Delhi, India** – As anticipation builds for the Asia Cup 2025, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has stirred the pot with his unconventional 15-man squad selection. While reports suggest that some high-profile players like Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer might miss the cut for the actual squad, Harbhajan has included both in his lineup.

Harbhajan’s most surprising decisions include leaving out in-form T20I opener Sanju Samson, opting for Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul as wicket-keeper batters. Mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy also finds himself out of favor, with Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar preferred as spin options.

Despite Gill’s uncertain standing in the eyes of some selectors, Harbhajan strongly advocates for his inclusion, stating to Times of India, “You cannot undermine or underestimate Shubman Gill. He is a very talented batter who can adapt to any format. He is an all-format player.” He further emphasized Gill’s ability to play long innings, a valuable asset in T20 cricket.

Another bold move sees the exclusion of Tilak Varma, currently ranked No. 2 in the ICC T20I rankings, replaced by Shreyas Iyer and the inclusion of all-rounder Riyan Parag. Mohammed Siraj, India’s hero at The Oval, also makes the squad, despite some reports suggesting he might be overlooked.

**Harbhajan Singh’s full 15-man Asia Cup 2025 squad:** Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Riyan Parag, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj.

The Asia Cup 2025 kicks off on September 9th, with India facing the United Arab Emirates on September 10th. The final is scheduled for September 28th. The debate surrounding the ideal squad selection is sure to continue until the official team is announced.

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