Indian wicket-keeper batter Sanju Samson has again been placed in the midst of selection dilemma ahead of the Asia Cup 2025, after playing for the Kochi Blue Tigers in the Kerala Cricket League. Interestingly enough, Samson was sent to bat at No. 5, which was a significant change from his traditional top-order position. This development surprised everyone, particularly considering increasing speculation over his batting spot in the national team line-up.
By preferring teammates Vinoop Manoharan and Jobin Joby to occupy the top positions, Samson might have hinted at his flexibility in playing a middle-order position perhaps a sign of the combination being tested for the Asia Cup. With Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav most likely to bat at No. 3 and No. 4 respectively, and Abhishek Sharma set to open, Samson might have to change to slot into the playing eleven.
The addition of vice-captain Shubman Gill, fresh from a successful tour of England, has also raised the stakes for batting positions. Since Gill is the vice-captain it is almost sure that he will be a part of the playing XI and considering his regular batting position at number 3, Sanju Samson will either get demoted or will not be able to find a place in the playing XI.
Experienced spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently said that Samson’s inclusion in the playing XI may be “in a bit of danger,” particularly considering the team dynamics at present. With the Asia Cup imminent, Samson’s adaptability and form will be watched closely by selectors as they confirm India’s opening combination.
“What will make me even more sad is that there are high chances that you have announced him (Gill) as the vice-captain, so Sanju Samson’s place is in a bit of danger. The matter is sealed. Sanju is not going to play because Shubman Gill will play. If you want to play Gill, you have to play him at three, and Sanju will open the batting, but that too is not going to happen.” Ashwin said in his YouTube channel ‘Ash ki Baat’
