Sanju Samson has thrown his hat into the ring for India's opening slot in the upcoming Asia Cup with a blistering 42-ball century in the Kerala Cricket League (KCL). Leading the Kochi Blue Tigers as vice-captain, Samson opened the innings against Aries Kollam Sailors and immediately stamped his authority on the game. He reached his half-century in a mere 16 balls, breaking the record for the fastest fifty in KCL history, and then raced to his century in just 42 deliveries. His innings included 13 fours and 5 sixes.
Samson's sensational knock comes at a crucial time, as India grapples with finalizing its top-order combination for the Asia Cup. With Shubman Gill returning to the T20I squad as vice-captain, the competition for the opening slots has intensified. Former Indian captain Ajinkya Rahane believes that Gill is likely to open with Abhishek Sharma. However, Aakash Chopra suggests that Samson may miss out on the playing XI altogether due to team combinations.
Samson's record as an opener in T20Is is impressive. In 17 innings, he has scored 522 runs at an average of 32.63 and a strike rate of over 180, including three centuries and a fifty. This latest century in the KCL further strengthens his case for a spot at the top of the order.
However, the team management may be considering a different role for Samson. With Gill and Sharma likely to open, Samson may have to bat in the middle order. Recognizing this possibility, Samson has shown a willingness to adapt. In a recent KCL match, he moved down the order to number five, although he did not get a chance to bat. In another match, batting at number 6, he struggled to score 13 runs off 22 deliveries.
Mohammad Kaif believes that Samson's place in the playing XI is uncertain due to Gill's inclusion and his appointment as vice-captain. Kaif expects Gill and Sharma to open, with Tilak Varma at No. 3 and Suryakumar Yadav at No. 4. This leaves limited room for Samson, especially with Jitesh Sharma also in contention as a finisher.
Despite the challenges, Samson's recent form cannot be ignored. His KCL century demonstrates his ability to perform under pressure and adapt to different situations. Moreover, his versatility as a wicketkeeper-batter adds value to the team. Ultimately, the decision of whether to include Samson in the playing XI will depend on the team's balance and the conditions in the UAE.
Sanju Samson's magnificent century has undoubtedly made a strong statement. While Shubman Gill's return complicates the equation, Samson has proven that he is ready to seize any opportunity that comes his way. As the Asia Cup approaches, the Indian team management has a tough but welcome decision to make: how to best utilize the talents of both Shubman Gill and the in-form Sanju Samson.
