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Suryakumar Yadav Hailed as India's X-Factor Ahead of 2025 Asia Cup
8 Sep
Summary
- Suryakumar Yadav praised as India's X-factor alongside Jasprit Bumrah
- Bumrah's return to T20Is strengthens India's bowling lineup
- Shubman Gill appointed as T20I vice-captain, potential all-format leader

Ahead of the 2025 Asia Cup, which is set to begin on September 9, former India spinner Murali Kartik has heaped high praise on T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav. Kartik has hailed Suryakumar as the X-factor for the Indian team, alongside pace sensation Jasprit Bumrah.
Kartik emphasized that Bumrah's return to the shortest format, after last playing in the 2024 T20 World Cup, has significantly strengthened the Indian bowling lineup. The 48-year-old pointed out that Bumrah has an impressive T20I record, with an average of 14.29 in 35 matches since 2023.
The former spinner also spoke about Shubman Gill's rise to the role of T20I vice-captain, following his earlier appointment as the full-time Test captain. Kartik suggested that this move indicates the team management is considering Gill as a potential all-format leader for the future.
With the 2025 Asia Cup just around the corner, the Indian team will be looking to Suryakumar, Bumrah, and Gill to lead their charge in the tournament. The Men in Blue are placed in Group A alongside hosts UAE, Pakistan, and Oman, and will be aiming to secure a spot in the knockout stages.