BCCI To Keep Five Standby Players Away From India’s Asia Cup Squad In Dubai Initially
BCCI Won't Send Five Standby Stars To Dubai For Asia Cup, Report Reveals Staggered Arrival Plan
As the Indian cricket team gears up for the Asia Cup 2025 in Dubai starting September 9, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is shaking up traditions in player logistics and squad management. According to a PTI report, five of the standby players – Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, Washington Sundar, Prasidh Krishna, and Riyan Parag – will not travel with the main squad but will join the team later if required.
Standby Players to Stay Back Initially
In a departure from the usual approach where the entire squad assembles first in Mumbai before flying out, the BCCI has decided to allow players to travel to Dubai from their respective cities in a staggered fashion for logistical convenience.
A senior BCCI official told PTI on condition of anonymity,
"All players will arrive in Dubai by the evening of September 4, ready for the first net session on September 5 at the ICC Academy. For logistical reasons, it makes more sense for players to fly directly from their cities to Dubai rather than first assembling in Mumbai."
This approach intends to ease travel fatigue and adapt to the tight schedule, reducing unnecessary in-country travel.
Who Are The Standby Players?
Player | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Yashasvi Jaiswal | Batter (Opener) | Consistent IPL performer |
Dhruv Jurel | Wicketkeeper-Batsman | Emerging talent |
Washington Sundar | All-rounder (Spin/Bat) | Key spinner and batter |
Prasidh Krishna | Fast Bowler | Potential death bowler |
Riyan Parag | Batter | Explosive middle order |
These players have been named standby for the Asia Cup but will not initially accompany the main squad to Dubai.
Main Squad And Early Asia Cup Fixtures
The core squad led by captain Suryakumar Yadav will begin the campaign on September 10 against the UAE in Group A, followed by crucial matches against regional rivals Pakistan on September 14 and Oman on September 19.
The BCCI earlier announced a strong 15-member squad and also named Shubman Gill as vice-captain, emphasizing a blend of experience and youth.
Other Players' Current Engagements
Some Asia Cup mainstays are still involved in ongoing domestic competitions. For instance:
Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana are representing North Zone in the Duleep Trophy quarterfinal against East Zone.
Kuldeep Yadav is playing for Central Zone in their Duleep Trophy clash against North East Zone.
Their participation in these tournaments helps maintain match readiness ahead of the Asia Cup.
What This Means for India’s Asia Cup Preparation
This staggered arrival strategy shows the BCCI’s flexibility and focus on player welfare amid a packed international calendar. The standby players' absence in Dubai initially reflects confidence in the core squad but keeps doors open for reinforcements if circumstances demand.
The approach also helps players avoid the physical and mental strain of unnecessary travel, allowing them to arrive fresher and better prepared.