The question of where Shubman Gill fits into India's Asia Cup 2025 playing XI is a topic of much discussion, despite his elevation to vice-captaincy. With the Asia Cup 2025 fast approaching, all eyes are on how the team management will utilize Gill's talent in the T20I format.

BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed this very question, stating that it ultimately "depends on the captain and management". He added that the decision would be made upon reaching Dubai and assessing the prevailing conditions. Agarkar highlighted that Gill, along with Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson, provides excellent opening options.

The Indian squad for the Asia Cup 2025 is led by Suryakumar Yadav, with Shubman Gill as vice-captain. The team includes a mix of experienced players and promising talents. The batting lineup features Suryakumar Yadav, Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Hardik Pandya, and Shivam Dube. The spin attack is composed of Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Kuldeep Yadav. The pace battery consists of Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Harshit Rana. Jitesh Sharma and Sanju Samson are the two wicketkeeping options.

Several factors contribute to the complexity of slotting Gill into the playing XI. Firstly, the strong performances of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson as an opening pair in recent T20I series cannot be ignored. This duo has displayed explosive starts and consistent performances, making them a formidable combination. Secondly, Gill's recent form in Test cricket has been exceptional, but his T20I record, while promising, is still developing.

Former cricketers and experts have weighed in on the debate. Some argue that Gill's talent and adaptability make him a must-have in the playing XI, while others suggest that his best fit might be in the Test format, and that the T20I side should focus on players with more experience and success in the format.

Harbhajan Singh cautioned against undermining Gill's potential in T20Is, emphasizing his ability to adapt and dominate in any format. Srikkanth, on the other hand, questioned Gill's sudden inclusion in the T20I squad, given his absence from the team in recent series.

Ultimately, the decision of where Shubman Gill fits into India's Asia Cup 2025 playing XI rests with the team management. They will need to consider various factors, including Gill's form, the performances of other players, and the specific match conditions, to determine the best possible team composition. With Gill's versatility, he could be utilized as an opener or in the middle order, providing flexibility to the team's batting lineup.