Previously, Indian cricket player Irfan Pathan has offered his detailed assessment of the Indian squad’s makeup and tactical approach for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2025, to be held in the United Arab Emirates. Deviating from standard expectations, Pathan has selected someone other than prominent figures like Hardik Pandya or Jasprit Bumrah as the team’s pivotal ‘Game Changer.’
Irfan Pathan’s Choice for India’s Game Changer in the Asia Cup 2025
Pathan believes that the role of a game changer is perfectly suited for the intriguing slow bowler, Varun Chakaravarthy. Pathan’s explanation is persuasively based on resurgence and current performance. He feels the Asia Cup is an ideal venue for the star bowler to ‘erase the memories’ of his previous appearance in the UAE during the T20 World Cup 2021, where he didn’t secure any wickets across three games. Pathan is emphasizing Chakaravarthy’s improved form and self-assurance. During a special conversation on Sony Sports Network, Pathan mentioned:
“I’m really looking forward to seeing Varun Chakaravarthy in action; it could be a real comeback story for him. He participated in the 2021 WC in the UAE but wasn’t at his best, so I’ll be watching him closely because he’s performing very well and is full of confidence. So, from all the players mentioned, I’d pick Varun.”
The statistics validate Pathan’s viewpoint. Chakaravarthy, presently ranked No. 4 as a T20I bowler, has stood out since rejoining the national side under coach Gautam Gambhir, claiming an impressive 31 wickets in only 12 matches. His stellar performance significantly boosted the 2025 IPL campaign, where he emerged as the Kolkata Knight Riders‘ top wicket-taker, securing 17 wickets in 13 games with an average of 22.53 and an economy rate of 7.66.
Irfan Pathan’s Suggested Bowling Lineup for India in Asia Cup 2025
In addition to his choice for ‘Game Changer,’ Pathan also went into detail about what he considers the most effective bowling and batting arrangement for the Indian team. He mentioned the advantage of having two outstanding all-rounders in Hardik and Axar Patel, who can contribute in the top seven batting positions and bowl their full four overs. This provides the team with the ‘flexibility to choose any bowling lineup you prefer.’
Pathan’s proposed bowling lineup includes three key fast bowlers: Pandya, Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh. He also proposed a unique spin combination, possibly at the cost of certain well-known players. He didn’t include wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav in his ideal combination, instead supporting Abhishek Sharma to assist with his occasional left-arm spin when necessary.
“The actual composition may depend on the nature of the pitches and the amount of dew, but I’d opt for Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, and Abhishek Sharma,” Irfan concluded.
