India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad, announced on August 19, brought a mix of excitement and intrigue. While Sanju Samson was a predictable inclusion, the selection of Shubman Gill as vice-captain has created a challenging scenario for the Kerala star. With Gill expected to take up one of the opening slots, Samson may be pushed down to No. 3 or even into the lower middle order – a role he is far less accustomed to.
A Troubling Sign from the Kerala Cricket League
In what seemed like a trial run for his new role, Samson batted at No. 6 in a Kerala Cricket League (KCL) match between Kochi Blue Tigers and Alleppey Ripples. Unfortunately, the move backfired. The elegant right-hander could manage only 13 runs off 22 balls – a sluggish innings that lacked his usual flair.
Known for his aggressive stroke play and ability to dominate from the start, Samson’s knock was uncharacteristically slow, ending with a strike rate of under 60. He failed to find the boundary even once, and his dismissal in the 17th over raised more doubts than answers about his readiness for a middle-order role.
A Selection Headache for India
Samson’s struggles couldn’t have come at a worse time. With India set to face Pakistan on September 14 in Dubai – one of the most anticipated clashes of the tournament – the team cannot afford uncertainty in its batting order.
His record as an opener in T20Is has been impressive, including three centuries, but the Asia Cup squad composition suggests he may have to sacrifice his preferred slot. If his KCL performance is any indication, adapting to this role might not be smooth sailing.
Final Thoughts
For Samson, the upcoming weeks are critical. He needs to prove that he can anchor the middle order while maintaining his trademark attacking intent. Otherwise, India’s think tank may be forced to look at other combinations – possibly leaving Samson out of the starting XI when the high-pressure Asia Cup campaign kicks off.
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