Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif strongly reacted to Axar Patel’s removal as India’s T20I vice-captain for the 2025 Asia Cup, following the announcement of the 15-member squad on August 19. The squad saw the return of Shubman Gill, who was also appointed vice-captain.
Axar had earlier served as deputy during the five-match home T20I series against England this year. Kaif termed the move to drop him from the role as unfair, stressing that the all-rounder should have been informed beforehand. He further remarked that Axar was entitled to a clear explanation for the decision.
“I hope Axar Patel was informed about his removal from vice-captaincy in advance and he didn’t come to know about it from the press conference. Axar did no wrong so he deserves an explanation. @akshar2026,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
I hope Axar Patel was informed about his removal from vice-captaincy in advance and he didn't come to know about it from the press conference. Axar did no wrong so he deserves an explanation. @akshar2026
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) August 19, 2025
Suryakumar Yadav will remain as captain of the team, while Shubman Gill has been entrusted with additional leadership responsibilities. Already India’s Test skipper and ODI vice-captain, Gill has now been appointed vice-captain in T20Is as well. He impressed in his maiden assignment as Test captain during the England tour, where he amassed 754 runs with four centuries as the series ended 2-2.
Meanwhile, Axar Patel, who played a crucial role in India’s 2024 T20 World Cup victory, will aim to deliver impactful performances once again in the 2025 Asia Cup.
Shubman Gill Makes T20I Comeback For 2025 Asia Cup
Shubman Gill last featured for India in T20Is during the 2024 Sri Lanka tour, right before the T20 World Cup. His return to the squad has been driven by consistent IPL outings and excellent recent form. In IPL 2025, he piled up 650 runs across 15 matches, averaging 50 with a strike rate of 155.87.
Gill scored 426 runs in 12 games in 2024, after a stellar 2023 with 890 runs and three centuries. In 21 T20Is, he has 578 runs at 30.42 and a strike rate of 139.27. The 2025 Asia Cup offers him a chance to build on his IPL form and boost his international record.
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