5 game changers to watch in Asia Cup 2025

The Asia Cup 2025 is just around the corner, with the action set to begin on September 9 when Afghanistan take on Hong Kong in the opening clash. The tournament, which runs until September 28, will see eight teams battle it out for continental supremacy in a nearly three-week-long cricketing spectacle.

For the players, this is not just another multi-nation event, it is also a crucial preparation ground for the T20 World Cup 2026, where performances in the Asia Cup will carry weight in terms of confidence and selection. Many teams have already begun sharpening their skills through bilateral T20 series and franchise cricket across the globe. On that note, let us take a look at five players who could be potential game-changers in the Asia Cup 2025.

5 game changers to watch in Asia Cup 2025

Suryakumar Yadav

Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav is arguably the most exciting batter in modern T20 cricket. He is known for his fearless, 360-degree strokeplay and his T20I numbers, an average of 38.20 and a strike rate of 167.07, are among the best globally.

The 34-year-old has just returned from a long injury layoff but showed encouraging signs of form in the IPL 2025 while representing Mumbai Indians. He also participated in the Mumbai T20 League after the cash-rich league, ensuring he entered the Asia Cup with valuable match practice under his belt.

 Suryakumar has the rare ability to change the course of a match within a few overs, particularly in the middle stages of an innings and can lead the team to another title.