Sanju Samson refuses to vacate opener slot for Shubman Gill; ready with Plan B if pushed down

Mumbai: When India’s Asia Cup squad was announced last week, speculation quickly arose that Sanju Samson might struggle to find a place in the playing XI, despite being part of the 15-member group. The comeback of Shubman Gill, elevated to vice-captain, hinted that Samson who has spent much of the past year establishing himself as India’s go-to opener in T20Is could be pushed aside. Over his last 10 innings, Samson has hammered three centuries, reinforcing his credentials at the top.

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One possible alternative is shifting Samson down to No. 6. However, the wicketkeeper-batter has rarely featured in a finisher’s role, a spot already occupied by specialist Jitesh Sharma.

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Still, Samson appears far from conceding ground. With no warm-up matches lined up before the Asia Cup begins on September 9 in the UAE, he turned to the Kerala Cricket League to sharpen his form. Representing the Kochi Blue Tigers, Samson initially experimented at No. 6 but failed to make an impact. Quickly reverting to his customary role as opener, he struck commanding knocks of 121 and 89 in successive outings, piling up 223 runs in three innings.

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These performances, especially at the top order, act as a direct statement of intent to the selectors and team management and perhaps, a challenge to Gill’s position ahead of the continental tournament.