India announces roster for Round 2 of FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers

Three new players have been added to the squad for the final qualifying tournament.

The Basketball Federation of India (BFI) announced the roster for the Senior Indian men’s basketball team for round 2 of the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers, scheduled to be played in Bahrain from March 19-24. The second round will serve as the final qualifying tournament for the FIBA Asia Cup 2025.

With just four spots remaining for the FIBA Asia Cup 2025, the Indian men’s basketball team face a crucial challenge against Iraq and Bahrain in the final qualification window at Khalifa Sports City, Bahrain. After falling short in previous attempts, India now have an opportunity to secure its place in Asia’s premier basketball tournament, set to take place in Jeddah, Qatar.

Also Read: Five key takeaways from India’s campaign at FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers Round 1

Historically, India have faced heartbreak in its bid for continental success, but this time, only two teams—Iraq and Bahrain—stand in the way of qualification. After back-to-back losses in Round 1 to Iran and Qatar, India must deliver in these do-or-die matchups to keep its FIBA Asia Cup hopes alive.

India’s squad for FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers round 2

• Backcourt: M Aravind Kumar, Poiyamozhi Baladhaneshwar, Vishesh Bhriguvanshi, Kunwar Gurbaz Singh Sandhu, Harsh Dagar, Gurvinder Singh
• Frontcourt: Muin Bek Hafeez, Pranav Prince, Princepal Singh, Arvinder Singh Kahlon, Palpreet Singh Brar, Vaishak Manoj
• Head Coach: Scott Fleming

The roster sees three new additions, including Palpreet Singh, who replaces India’s leading scorer Amritpal Singh in the centre position. Vaishak Manoj will step in for Pratyanshu Tomar, adding athleticism on the wing, while Gurvinder Singh joins the backcourt, replacing veteran Joginder Singh Saharan.

These changes signal a mix of youth and experience as India look to bounce back from its defeats earlier in the competition.

Key Matchups: India vs Iraq (March 22)

India’s opening game hold extra significance as they go up against former head coach Veselin Matic, now leading Iraq. Both teams have a point to prove, with Iraq eager to avenge its 2023 qualification exit, which included a last-second, half-court buzzer-beater from Vishesh Bhriguvanshi that sealed India’s victory.

Historically, India holds a 2-0 record against Iraq in the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers, making them slight favourites in this encounter.

Also Read: FIBA Asia Cup 2025: Defending champions Australia, 11 more teams advance to tournament finals

India vs. Bahrain (March 23)

Bahrain, coming off a narrow defeat to Syria in Round 1, will have a home-court advantage and enter as favourites. India will need a disciplined defensive effort and strong performances from its frontcourt to challenge the host nation. With Bahrain eyeing its own spot in the final four qualifiers, this matchup could determine India’s fate.

A successful qualification would mark a major step forward for Indian basketball, providing increased exposure and competition on the Asian stage. However, failure to capitalize on these opportunities could extend India’s wait for a breakthrough at the highest level. With everything on the line, the next few days will define India’s basketball aspirations for years to come.

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