Asia Cup 2025: Sanju Samson’s Place in India’s Playing XI Under Scrutiny, According to Ravichandran Ashwin

Indian wicket-keeper batter Sanju Samson faces uncertainty regarding his spot in the India squad for the Asia Cup 2025. This speculation has intensified after his recent appearance for the Kochi Blue Tigers in the Kerala Cricket League, where he batted at number five, a departure from his usual top-order position. This strategic move has raised eyebrows and fueled discussions about his potential role in the national team. Samson’s altered batting position, with Vinoop Manoharan and Jobin Joby preferred at the top, hints at a possible middle-order role for him, perhaps as a test for the Asia Cup. Considering the likely batting order of Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav at numbers three and four, respectively, and Abhishek Sharma opening, Samson might need to adjust his position to fit into the playing eleven. The inclusion of vice-captain Shubman Gill, who recently had a successful tour of England, further complicates the selection dynamics. Gill’s assured place in the team, combined with his typical number three batting position, puts Samson’s spot in jeopardy, possibly leading to demotion or exclusion from the playing eleven. Experienced spinner Ravichandran Ashwin commented on the situation, suggesting Samson’s place is ‘in a bit of danger’ given the current team setup. The selectors will be closely monitoring Samson’s adaptability and form as they finalize India’s team composition for the Asia Cup.