The biggest news dominating Indian sports today revolves around cricket, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) prepares to unveil India's 15-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. The announcement is slated for today, August 19, following a high-profile selection meeting in Mumbai. Suryakumar Yadav is widely anticipated to continue as the team captain, having successfully cleared his fitness test. Speculation is rife regarding the potential omission of Test skipper Shubman Gill, despite his strong performances in Test cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL). Reports suggest that the team management is keen on backing consistent T20 performers like Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, and Tilak Varma. Jitesh Sharma is reportedly in contention as the backup wicket-keeper, following his impressive showing as a finisher in IPL 2025.
Beyond cricket, significant policy developments are underway in Indian sports. The Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, announced the launch of the Khelo Bharat Niti-2025 on August 18. This new policy emphasizes ensuring equitable access to sports infrastructure across the country, with a focus on developing facilities from block to state levels, irrespective of economic, social, or geographic disparities. The Niti also aims to establish comprehensive sports programs for all participation groups, from grassroots to elite levels, fostering inclusivity and increasing participation among women, persons with disabilities, and marginalized communities.
The Indian football landscape is also witnessing notable developments. Mohun Bagan Super Giant has reportedly refused to release its players for the first national camp under the new coach, Khalid Jamil. The club stated that it is not bound by rules to release players for international duty outside of designated FIFA windows, while also accusing the All India Football Federation (AIFF) of showing little regard for player welfare. Furthermore, the Supreme Court is set to hear a plea concerning the ongoing dispute between the AIFF and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) over the non-renewal of contracts for Indian Super League (ISL) clubs. The AIFF has clarified its U-turn on the ISL case, citing legal advice to prioritize the National Sports Governance Bill.