India appear to have built a formidable T20I unit for the upcoming Asia Cup, combining an explosive top order, a dependable middle-order core, and versatile all-rounders. The bowling attack, bolstered by the return of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, looks primed to dominate on the continental stage.
India’s campaign begin on September 10 against the UAE, before the much-awaited showdown with arch-rivals Pakistan on September 14. In the lead-up to the tournament, several players have emerged as key performers following India’s T20 World Cup win.
Abhishek Sharma: The X-factor at the top
One of the brightest sparks in India’s recent T20I setup, Abhishek Sharma brings an audacious brand of cricket to the top order. While his aggressive, risk-laden approach has led to occasional inconsistency, the rewards have been immense. In just 17 T20Is, Abhishek has piled up 535 runs at an average of 33.43, with a staggering strike rate of 193.84. He already has two centuries and two fifties to his name, including a highest score of 135. His standout series came against England, where he hammered 279 runs in five matches at a strike rate exceeding 219, along with contributing with the ball as a handy spin option.
Sanju Samson: Reinvented as opener
After years of being shuffled in the batting order, Sanju Samson has found a new identity as an opener. In 17 matches since taking the new role, Samson has amassed 487 runs at an astonishing strike rate of 171.47, with three centuries and a fifty. Though he had a lean patch against England, scoring just 51 runs in five innings, he bounced back with a stellar run in the Kerala Cricket League, where he scored 368 runs in five matches, including 30 sixes, at a strike rate of 186.80.
Tilak Varma: The Mr. Reliable at No. 3
Tilak Varma has cemented his place at No. 3 with a blend of composure and aggression. In nine T20Is since his return, he has scored 413 runs at an average of 82.60, registering two centuries, including a top score of 120*. Both tons came on challenging away tours in South Africa.
Hardik Pandya: Dual threat in peak form
India’s premier all-rounder Hardik Pandya has hit form at the right time. With 320 runs in 13 innings at a strike rate of 145.45, and 10 wickets with the ball, Pandya brings balance and firepower to the lineup. His best bowling figures stand at 2/23.
Varun Chakravarthy: Redemption through spin
Back in India’s T20I plans, Varun Chakravarthy has rediscovered his rhythm. In 12 matches, the mystery spinner has claimed 31 wickets at a brilliant average of 11.25, including two five-wicket hauls, with best figures of 5/17.
Arshdeep Singh: Left-arm precision
Arshdeep Singh continues to impress with his disciplined bowling. In 11 matches, he has taken 20 wickets at an average of 15.15, with a best of 3/14, and an economy rate of 7.87.
Though Ravi Bishnoi misses out on the Asia Cup squad, his contributions post-T20 World Cup, 25 wickets in 18 matches, were vital in India’s rise.