Sanju Samson’s Selection: In Form, Yet Facing Bench Threat Ahead of Asia Cup

Sanju Samson’s red-hot form may not be enough to secure a starting role in India’s lineup for the Asia Cup 2025, according to former all-rounder Irfan Pathan. Despite a stellar T20I run last year and a spot in the squad, Samson faces tough competition with Shubman Gill’s return, which could relegate him to the middle order or even the bench. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar previously noted that Samson opened alongside Abhishek Sharma only due to the absence of Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who were tied up with other formats. With Gill now back as vice-captain, his place in the XI appears locked in, putting Samson’s role in jeopardy.

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Speaking on Sony Sports Network, Pathan addressed the debate over Samson’s place in the team. While acknowledging the challenge Samson faces, he suggested the wicketkeeper-batter could find a spot at No. 5 in the middle order. “It’s tough for Sanju to make the XI, but I’ve seen clips of him batting lower down. If he can adapt to that role, why not play him at No. 5? That would mean Jitesh Sharma might miss out,” Pathan said.

Samson has been in scintillating form in the Kerala Cricket League, notching four fifty-plus scores with remarkable consistency. His 368 runs in five innings at a strike rate of 186.80 rank him third among the season’s top run-scorers.

Abhishek Sharma’s Edge in the Lineup

Pathan highlighted Samson’s inconsistency on the international stage as a concern, pointing out his tendency to follow centuries with low scores. “Sanju has performed well, but there’s a question mark over his consistency. He’ll score hundreds, then get out cheaply—it’s a pattern,” Pathan noted. He also emphasized Abhishek Sharma’s likely inclusion, citing his ability to bowl and his impressive strike rate. “Abhishek will be there for sure, that’s No. 1,” he added.

With inputs from Sony Sports Network.