Sanju Samson finds himself in the middle order as India kick off their Asia Cup 2025 campaign against UAE. Samson had earmarked himself as a T20I opener, forming a potent partnership with Abhishek Sharma at the top. However, the return of Shubman Gill in T20Is has seen the Kerala star drop down the order in Dubai.
3 centuries in 12 months but Sanju set for finishing role
Sanju Samson was India’s biggest surprise from their playing XI for their Asia Cup opener against the UAE. The 30-year-old featured in every T20 bilateral series since the T20 World Cup in 2024, partnering Abhishek Sharma at the top of the order. He struck three centuries in the time frame, giving India the explosive start in their T20i revolution.
Samson’s spot was considered secured but the Asia Cup changes things. Test captain Shubman Gill returns to T20Is on the back of a stellar India vs England series. He set the IPL 2025 season alight with more than 700 runs, while Sanju struggled with injury. The Kerala star struggled against England earlier this year, with 26 being his best score across 5 T20Is.
Gill is no stranger to T20Is and has the highest score by an Indian in the format. The 26-year-old averages 30.42 in the format, striking at 139.27 in 21 games. Shubman and Abhishek share a bond from their days playing together for Punjab and will look to kick on in the Asia Cup 2025.
Sanju however managed to stay in the XI. His performances over the last 12 months meant that India found a imperfect fit for him in the middle order. The Kerala batter will likely don the finisher’s role and keep wickets.
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