Sanju Samson's recent explosive performances in the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) 2025 have ignited discussions about India's batting lineup for the upcoming Asia Cup, creating potential pressure on Shubman Gill. Samson's dynamic stroke play and ability to perform under pressure have long been recognized, but consistency has often been a challenge.
In a recent KCL match, Sanju Samson achieved a rare feat by smashing 13 runs off a single ball. During the game between Thrissur Titans and Kochi Blue Tigers, Samson hammered a breathtaking 89 off 46 balls, decorated with nine sixes and four fours. Furthermore, in another KCL 2025 match, Samson scored a blistering 121 off 51 balls for Kochi Blue Tigers, which included 14 fours and 7 sixes. This innings not only powered his team to a thrilling last-ball victory but also put the spotlight firmly back on him ahead of the continental tournament.
Samson's explosive form comes at a crucial time, as the Asia Cup 2025 serves as a vital build-up to the T20 World Cup next year. India's Asia Cup campaign is set to begin on September 10 against hosts UAE in Dubai. The highly anticipated match against Pakistan is scheduled for September 14, also in Dubai, followed by their final group stage match against Oman on September 19 in Abu Dhabi.
While Samson has showcased his potential as an opener, chief selector Ajit Agarkar hinted that Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma might be the preferred opening pair. This could lead to Samson either being benched or slotted into a middle-order role. In a KCL match against Alleppey Ripples, Samson batted at No. 6 and scored 13 runs off 22 balls. Although he has returned to opening in the league, India's lineup for the Asia Cup may see him batting in the middle order, adapting to the presence of Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma at the top.
Shubman Gill has been a consistent performer for India across all formats. Gill's numbers in 2025 speak volumes about his consistency, adaptability, and technical evolution. In IPL 2025, Gill amassed 650 runs in 15 matches at 50.00 average and 155.87 SR. After heroics in the England series, Shubman Gill has been drafted into the T20 side, and has also been handed the deputy role. Gill is known for his elegant stroke play and composed temperament. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed makes him a vital asset.
With the Asia Cup 2025 on the horizon, Samson's stint in KCL serves as an ideal preparation platform. Samson's ability to switch between roles—opening and middle-order—underscores his versatility and tactical value to the national squad. His recent performances have certainly made a strong case for his inclusion in the playing XI, adding pressure on the team management to find the optimal batting order.
