With the much-hyped Asia Cup 2025 around the corner, India’s No. 3 batting position still remains unsettled. The selectors have included Test skipper Shubman Gill in the squad, and he has also been appointed vice-captain under Suryakumar Yadav. This move almost guarantees Gill his preferred opening role, where he will partner his childhood friend and Punjab teammate Abhishek Sharma. Their pairing means India must now carefully decide who should walk in next at one-down.
Sanju Samson, who recently opened with Abhishek in the T20I series, may lose his spot at the top. Instead, he is being strongly considered for the middle order. Meanwhile, Tilak Varma, who impressed as India’s No. 3 during the South Africa tour, is also competing for the same position. With the Asia Cup just days away, this selection dilemma has become a major talking point in Indian cricket circles.
Kaif Backs Samson Against Rashid Khan
Former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif has now entered the debate, backing Sanju Samson as the best option for India at No. 3. Kaif explained that Samson’s ability to dominate spinners makes him the ideal batter against Afghanistan’s bowling attack, led by Rashid Khan.
“He is among the top 10 six-hitters in the IPL. That’s why I believe when Rashid Khan comes to bowl in the middle overs, there cannot be a better player against him than Sanju, as he can hit sixes down the ground,” Kaif said on his YouTube channel.
Kaif further highlighted Samson’s batting record in different conditions. He stressed how the wicketkeeper-batter has adapted his game and produced impactful knocks both in international cricket and the IPL.
“South Africa has one of the toughest conditions for batting, and he has hit two centuries as an opener there. He plays both pace and spin well, and in the IPL, he scores 400-500 runs every year,” he added.
Why Samson Fits the Role
Samson’s reputation as a clean striker of the ball makes him a valuable asset in the middle order. He is already among the top 10 six-hitters in the IPL, which means he has the ability to counter bowlers like Rashid Khan who thrive in the middle overs. By promoting him to No. 3, India would also add depth to the batting order and provide insurance if the openers fall early.
Additionally, Samson’s experience across formats gives him an edge over the relatively younger Tilak Varma. At 29, Samson is entering the peak of his career, and consistent opportunities at this stage could finally establish him as a permanent member of India’s T20I side.
Tilak Varma Can Wait, Says Kaif
While many have been impressed with Tilak Varma, Kaif feels the youngster’s chance can wait. Varma, ranked No. 2 in the T20I batting charts, shone during India’s tour of South Africa where he played mature knocks at No. 3. However, Kaif believes that grooming Samson with consistent opportunities will be more beneficial ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.
“Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill will open (in the Asia Cup). For the No. 3 spot, I feel Tilak Varma is a youngster and can wait for his turn. Sanju is an experienced batter, and he could be groomed by giving him consistent opportunities at No. 3. There is a World Cup after six months, and he deserves a chance,” Kaif said.
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