Sunil Gavaskar has asked the Indian team management to include Sanju Samson in the playing XI for the upcoming Asia Cup. India has picked Samson and Jitesh Sharma as the two wicketkeeper-batters for the eight-team tournament.
Since Gautam Gambhir became head coach, Samson has been a regular in India’s T20I team. In 14 matches under him, the Kerala player has scored more than 400 runs, including three centuries. But now, with Shubman Gill back in the T20I squad and also named as vice-captain, Samson’s spot looks uncertain. Gill is likely to open the innings because of his successful IPL record, which could push Samson out of the main XI.
Gavaskar feels leaving out Samson would be wrong. He advised the team management to use Samson’s flexibility, either at No. 3 or in the middle order.
Sunil Gavaskar said that if Sanju Samson is chosen as part of India’s main squad, he should not be left only as a reserve player. He explained that it’s a good problem for the selectors to have, because Samson can play at number three or even drop down to number six as a finisher. Gavaskar also praised Jitesh Sharma for his excellent performance in the recent IPL. He added that both players give the selection committee a “happy headache” while finalizing the team.
Samson likely to play initial games ahead of Jitesh: Gavaskar
Gavaskar said, “I think Samson will most likely be chosen ahead of Jitesh for the first few matches. After that, his place in the team will depend on how well he performs in the rest of the tournament. That’s just my opinion.”
Gavaskar also thinks Samson might bat at number 3, followed by Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya.
“But I think they might consider playing Samson at number three and Tilak as a finisher at five or six. Hardik Pandya is also in the team, so he will likely bat at five or six as usual.”
FAQ
Which player is being discussed for inclusion in India’s XI?
Former captain Sunil Gavaskar highlighted Sanju Samson as a strong candidate for India’s playing XI in the Asia Cup 2025.
Why does Gavaskar believe Samson should be in the XI?
Gavaskar believes Samson is versatile, capable of batting at number three or as a finisher at six, making him essential for the team.
Who is the other player mentioned as a competitor for the spot?
Jitesh Sharma has also performed well recently, especially in the IPL, and is another contender for India’s XI.
How does Hardik Pandya’s role affect the batting order?
Hardik Pandya is expected to bat at five or six, so the team may adjust Samson and Tilak’s positions accordingly.
