Saba Karim names his all-time India Asia Cup XI – here’ why Rohit Sharma misses out

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Former India wicketkeeper and cricket analyst Saba Karim has sparked lively debate among fans after unveiling his all-time India Asia Cup XI on Sony Sports Network.

The biggest talking point was the omission of Rohit Sharma, Team India’s current ODI captain, despite his stellar record in the tournament.

Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly open the Batting

Karim’s lineup begins with a legendary pairing: Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly. Tendulkar’s dominance in Asia Cups is undisputed, scoring 971 runs at an average of 51.10 in ODIs. Ganguly, who accumulated 518 runs in 13 matches, was not only a consistent performer but also a leader who shaped India’s cricketing identity. Karim handed Ganguly the captaincy role, citing his influence during India’s golden era.

Middle-order packed with match-winners

The heart of the batting order includes Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina and MS Dhoni. Kohli’s consistency in pressure situations, Yuvraj’s flair, and Raina’s finishing ability provide solidity and firepower. Dhoni, chosen as wicketkeeper, adds both tactical sharpness and renowned finishing skills that made him a standout performer in past Asia Cups.

All-round depth and potent bowling attack

To add balance, Karim selected Kapil Dev as the pace-bowling all-rounder, offering both lower-order runs and leadership qualities. The spin duo of Harbhajan Singh and Anil Kumble brings experience and wicket-taking ability in subcontinental conditions. Completing the bowling attack, Zaheer Khan’s swing with the new ball and Jasprit Bumrah’s death-over expertise make the XI a formidable unit across formats.

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Sab Karim’s all time India Asia Cup XI: Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly (captain), Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, MS Dhoni (wicket-keeper), Kapil Dev, Harbhajan Singh, Anil Kumble, Zaheer Khan, Jasprit Bumrah

Rohit Sharma, with 939 Asia Cup runs and the record for the highest individual score in the tournament (176 runs), was expected to be a guaranteed selection. However, Karim defended his decision, emphasizing the importance of impact in defining matches and team balance over statistical dominance. According to him, Ganguly’s dual role as opener and leader edged Rohit out of the XI.

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