Sanju Samson (Agency Image)

India’s wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson is preparing to embrace a new role ahead of the Asia Cup 2025. With Shubman Gill returning to the T20I squad for the first time since July 2024, Samson is unlikely to open the innings as he has in the past. While he remains a vital part of India’s playing XI in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, his batting position could change, giving fans a glimpse of a different side to his game. Samson has already signalled his readiness to adapt. In the Kerala Cricket League on Thursday, he was expected to open for Kochi Blue Tigers but chose to move down the order, slotting in at number five. Although he did not get a chance to bat against Adani Trivandrum Royals but his decision highlighted his team-first approach and willingness to adjust to new roles.

The Asia Cup setup means Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma are likely to form India’s opening pair, leaving Samson to find a new position in the middle order. Number three, where Samson has enjoyed considerable success in T20s, is expected to be occupied by Tilak Varma, making number five or six his probable spot in the batting line-up.

India’s squad for the Asia Cup 2025:

Surya Kumar Yadav (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Sanju Samson (WK), Harshit Rana, Rinku SinghAlso Read: Asia Cup 2025 | Curious case of Sanju Samson: The unsettled star of Indian cricketFormer India captain Ajinkya Rahane has also weighed in on the team’s combination, acknowledging that while Samson is a confident and dependable player, team balance may require others to open. Rahane indicated that Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma are the likely opening pair, but stressed that Samson’s value to the team goes beyond any single batting position.