As India prepares for the Asia Cup 2025 final, former leg-spinner Amit Mishra has made a striking assertion: in his view, there are “no seniors” in the final playing XI. He lauds the rise of youngsters like Abhishek Sharma and Kuldeep Yadav, arguing that the team’s success depends on merit and form rather than reputation.
Mishra’s comments reflect a clear belief in performance over pedigree. He points to the consistency and impact of younger players throughout the tournament. Abhishek Sharma, in particular, has been a standout, racking up impressive totals and putting bowlers under constant pressure. Kuldeep, meanwhile, has led the bowling charts, reinforcing his status as a match-winner in the spin department.
Drawing from his experience as an India cricketer himself, Mishra noted that T20 cricket demands adaptability, fearlessness, and relentless execution. In such a format, he suggested, hierarchy matters less than who can deliver when it counts. He believes that the current Indian team has built a culture where younger players carry as much responsibility as veterans.
While Mishra acknowledged the presence of experienced names in the squad, he hinted that in the final, their roles may be redefined. The pressure moments, he contended, will belong to those who have consistently shown temperament, regardless of age. He sees this mindset as a necessary shift for India as the team looks to cement its supremacy in Asia.
Mishra’s stance has opened the door for debate. Some view his comments as empowerment — a signal that domestic and junior performers are now full participants in India’s strategic fabric. Others argue it may risk alienating senior players who still bring balance and experience in crunch matches. Still, in the immediate term, the message is clear: deliver, or make way.
If India’s final XI reflects Mishra’s philosophy, we may see a lineup focused on form, pace, spin balance, and composure under pressure — rather than sentimental selections. For fans, it’s a fascinating moment: the passing of a baton from the established to the emergent, and perhaps a defining moment in India’s evolution in T20 cricket.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025