As India prepare for the Asia Cup 2025, the spotlight shines on Sanju Samson and his place in the XI. Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar believes Samson deserves a consistent run in India’s playing XI, calling his inclusion in the squad a clear sign of trust.
“You don’t take someone like Sanju Samson as a reserve,” Gavaskar told a group of journalists. “If he’s part of your core team, he should be playing. He can slot in at No.3, or if needed, lower down as a finisher.”
Middle-Order Puzzle for India
With Shubman Gill returning as vice-captain and set to open with Abhishek Sharma, the middle order faces reshuffling. Jitesh Sharma has excelled as a finisher in the IPL, but Gavaskar backed Samson to start.
“My sense is that Samson will get the nod ahead of Jitesh, at least for the first couple of matches. What happens after that will depend on form,” he said.
Samson’s Place in a Crowded Line-up
India’s middle order already features Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, and Hardik Pandya. Gavaskar suggested Tilak could move down the order to accommodate Samson.
“Tilak might be asked to bat at five or six. Hardik will be in that zone too. That creates an opening at No.3 for Samson,” Gavaskar explained.
Rinku Singh or Shivam Dube Likely to Miss Out
The competition for spots is intense. According to Gavaskar, one of Rinku Singh or Shivam Dube will sit out due to balance.
“Axar brings that left-handed option and four overs with the ball. With that in mind, someone like Rinku or Dube might have to wait for their chance,” Gavaskar said.
Six-Bowler Strategy on the Cards
Gavaskar expects India to field six bowling options, including Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, three pacers, and Hardik Pandya. He even named Harshit Rana as a potential third seamer.
“You’re not going to stretch your batting to No.8 in T20s. You want variety in bowling. If one bowler has a bad day, you need someone else who can step in,” he noted.
No Concerns Over Jasprit Bumrah
Gavaskar also dismissed workload concerns around Jasprit Bumrah, stressing that the format supports short bursts.
“He’s not going to bowl four overs at a stretch. It’s two or three spells, and for someone of his fitness and skill, that shouldn’t be an issue,” he said.
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