India’s out of form players ahead of Asia Cup 2025

Published - 12 Sept 2025, 19:18 IST | Updated - 12 Sept 2025, 20:35 IST

India are the favourites to win the 2025 Asia Cup, a premier 20-over tournament that got underway on September 9 with its latest edition. They have been playing some fantastic cricket in the shortest format, and are currently the T20 World Cup champions as well. However, some players would like to return to form in the marquee event, as India look to win a record-extending ninth title in the continental tournament.

After Gautam Gambhir replaced Rahul Dravid as the head coach of the Indian team last year, the Men in Blue have showcased a fearless brand of cricket in T20Is. They have won every T20I series they have played since then. Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav have given the players a lot of independence as well as assurance. The players can express themselves, playing their natural game, without worrying about failure.

The Asian giants started their campaign in the tournament with a comfortable nine-wicket win against the UAE. Like in the Champions Trophy earlier this year, India will once again look to become undefeated champions. While most players have been in brilliant form, there are some who will want to grab their opportunities in the biggest cricketing tournament in the continent.

Harshit Rana's place in the Indian side has been criticized by some experts as well as fans. He has played only one T20I, which was as a concussion substitute against England on January 31. The right-arm speedster picked up three wickets. However, he didn't have a memorable time in the 2025 IPL. In 13 matches, he bagged 15 wickets, but he conceded runs at an economy rate of 10.18.

Rana recently played in the Delhi Premier League, where he took 12 wickets in nine games at an economy rate of 7.76. While these numbers were an improvement, he wasn't anywhere near his best. Before the DPL 2025, he was also a part of the Indian team for the England tour for the first Test of the five-match series, however, he returned home without featuring in the Playing XI.