As the cricketing world gears up for the Asia Cup 2025, all eyes are on Team India’s preparations for their opening clash against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on September 10 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Amid the buzz surrounding India’s formidable squad, one question dominates the narrative: will Sanju Samson, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter from Kerala, feature in the Playing XI? India’s T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, recently addressed this speculation during a pre-tournament press conference, offering a cheeky yet elusive response that has only fueled further debate. With Shubman Gill’s return as vice-captain and Jitesh Sharma’s resurgence in the nets, Samson’s role in the team hangs in the balance. This article delves into the complexities of India’s selection dilemma, Samson’s recent form, and the strategic considerations shaping the team’s lineup for the tournament opener.
The Press Conference Moment: Suryakumar’s Witty Dodge
During the captains’ press conference on September 9, 2025, Suryakumar Yadav was quizzed about Sanju Samson’s inclusion in the Playing XI against UAE. Known for his quick wit, Suryakumar responded with a chuckle, “Sir, I will message you the Playing XI. We are taking really good care of him. Don’t worry, we’ll make the right decision tomorrow.” This light-hearted reply, while entertaining, did little to clarify Samson’s status. Instead, it underscored the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the 30-year-old’s role in the Indian team, a recurring theme in his international career.
Suryakumar’s non-committal answer reflects the delicate balancing act India’s team management faces. With a squad brimming with talent, selecting the final XI is no easy task. The captain’s assurance that the team is “taking good care of” Samson suggests confidence in the wicketkeeper-batter’s abilities, but the lack of a definitive commitment hints at tough choices ahead. As India prepares to defend their Asia Cup title, the spotlight remains on whether Samson will get a chance to showcase his explosive batting prowess.
Sanju Samson’s Form: A Case for Inclusion
Sanju Samson’s recent performances make a compelling case for his inclusion. Over the past year, he has been one of India’s standout T20I batters, particularly at the top of the order. In his last 10 T20I innings, Samson has smashed three centuries, including two in South Africa (107 in Durban and an unbeaten 109 in Johannesburg) and one against Bangladesh (111 in Hyderabad in October 2024). These performances highlight his ability to dominate attacks and set the tone for India’s innings.
In domestic and franchise cricket, Samson has been equally impressive. In the Kerala Cricket League 2025, he scored 368 runs in just five innings at an average of 73.60 and a strike rate of 186.80, showcasing his consistency and aggression. His leadership and performances for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, despite an injury-marred season, further underline his value as a top-order batter. With 861 runs in 38 T20I innings at an average of 25.32 and a strike rate of 152.38, Samson’s numbers speak to his potential as a game-changer.
However, Samson’s international career has been a rollercoaster. Despite his undeniable talent, he has often found himself on the fringes, struggling to secure a consistent spot in the Playing XI. His role as an opener is now under threat with Shubman Gill’s return as vice-captain and Abhishek Sharma’s emergence as a left-handed option, creating a formidable opening combination. The question now is whether Samson can adapt to a middle-order role or if the team management will prioritize his strengths at the top.
The Competition: Jitesh Sharma’s Resurgence
Adding complexity to the selection puzzle is Jitesh Sharma, the Vidarbha wicketkeeper-batter who has re-emerged as a strong contender. Jitesh, who last played for India nearly two years ago, has impressed in recent domestic tournaments and the IPL with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where his strike rate often exceeds 170. His ability to finish innings with explosive cameos makes him a valuable asset in the lower order, a role where Samson has historically been less effective.
India’s training sessions in Dubai have provided further clues about the team’s preferences. During Monday’s practice at the ICC Academy, Jitesh batted alongside Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, and Hardik Pandya, while Samson was relegated to facing net bowlers after a long wait. This dynamic suggests that the team management, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir, may favor Jitesh for the wicketkeeping role and a middle-order spot. Gambhir, once a vocal supporter of Samson, appears ready to make a pragmatic call to prioritize team balance.
Shubman Gill’s Return and Team Balance
Shubman Gill’s appointment as vice-captain and his reinstatement as an opener have significantly impacted Samson’s prospects. Gill, who celebrated his birthday on September 8, 2025, brings leadership and consistency to the top order. His likely partnership with Abhishek Sharma, a left-handed batter, creates a balanced opening combination that aligns with India’s strategy of mixing right- and left-handed batters.
This development pushes Samson down the batting order, where he faces stiff competition from Jitesh, Tilak Varma, and Rinku Singh. Former India wicketkeeper MSK Prasad has suggested that Samson’s best chance of playing lies at No. 3, where his aggressive style could thrive. “If Sanju is slotted at number 3, then he will play. He has even scored back-to-back centuries in South Africa batting higher up,” Prasad told Times of India. However, if the team opts for a finisher like Jitesh or Hardik Pandya at No. 5 or 6, Samson’s inclusion becomes less likely.
Gautam Gambhir’s Influence and Tactical Considerations
Head coach Gautam Gambhir’s influence on India’s strategy cannot be overstated. Known for his bold decisions, Gambhir has previously backed Samson, famously stating he would give him a “rope of 21 ducks” to prove himself. Yet, recent training sessions indicate a shift in priorities. Gambhir’s brief but intense conversation with Samson during wicketkeeping drills suggests a focus on ensuring the player is prepared, but the limited batting time allotted to him in practice raises doubts about his immediate role.
India’s tactical setup for the UAE match will likely prioritize versatility and firepower in the lower order. With Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, and Tilak Varma offering all-round capabilities, and Jitesh providing finishing prowess, the team may lean toward a combination that maximizes flexibility. The UAE, coming off a competitive tri-series against Pakistan and Afghanistan, have shown flashes of brilliance, and India will be cautious not to underestimate them. Suryakumar acknowledged their “exciting brand of cricket,” emphasizing the need for a well-rounded XI.
The Case for Samson: Voices of Support
Despite the uncertainty, Samson enjoys significant support from former players and fans. Legends like Sunil Gavaskar, Ravi Shastri, and Mohammad Kaif have publicly advocated for his inclusion, citing his match-winning potential. His performances as a non-playing member of India’s T20 World Cup-winning squad last year further highlight his value to the team, even if he hasn’t always translated that into consistent opportunities.
Social media sentiment, as seen in posts on X, reflects the polarized views on Samson’s selection. Some fans and analysts speculate that his PR team is pushing for an opening role, potentially at the expense of Gill or Abhishek. However, such claims remain unverified and add to the noise surrounding his place in the squad. What is clear is that Samson’s talent and recent form make him a strong candidate, but his inclusion hinges on the team’s strategic priorities.
Looking Ahead: Samson’s Role in the Asia Cup
As India prepares to face UAE, the Playing XI decision will set the tone for their Asia Cup campaign. If Samson is included, he could bat at No. 3 or lower, leveraging his ability to accelerate against spin-heavy attacks. Alternatively, if Jitesh is preferred, Samson may have to wait for his chance, potentially against stronger opponents like Pakistan on September 14.
Suryakumar’s assurance that the team will “make the right decision” reflects confidence in their selection process. For Samson, the Asia Cup represents another opportunity to cement his place in a highly competitive squad. Whether he plays against UAE or not, his talent and resilience ensure that the conversation around him will continue.
In Summary
Sanju Samson’s potential inclusion in India’s Playing XI for the Asia Cup 2025 opener against UAE remains a topic of intense debate. Suryakumar Yadav’s playful yet ambiguous response at the press conference encapsulates the uncertainty, while training sessions and team dynamics point to a tough call for the management. With Shubman Gill’s return, Jitesh Sharma’s resurgence, and Gautam Gambhir’s strategic vision shaping the lineup, Samson’s role is far from guaranteed. Yet, his recent form and support from cricketing stalwarts keep him in the conversation. As India takes on UAE on September 10, fans will eagerly await the final XI, hoping to see Samson’s flair light up the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
