Asia Cup 2025- Suryakumar Yadav Opens Up On Sanju Samson’s Place In India XI: The India National Cricket Team is all geared up to take on the UAE in their Asia Cup 2025 opener on Wednesday, September 10, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. While fans are excited for the big clash, one question has been sparking plenty of debate – will Sanju Samson find a spot in the playing XI?
At the captains’ meet on September 9, just before the Afghanistan vs Hong Kong opener, skipper Suryakumar Yadav kept everyone guessing when asked about Samson’s role. With competition heating up between Samson and Jitesh Sharma for the wicketkeeper-batter slot, the Indian captain didn’t reveal much.
Suryakumar Yadav Keeps it Playful Over Sanju Samson’s Selection
When pressed about Samson’s chances of making the XI against the UAE, Suryakumar handled it in his own trademark style – lighthearted and witty. Instead of giving away the team’s plans, he joked with the journalist.
Suryakumar Yadav said at the press conference in Dubai, “Sir, aapko main playing XI message karta hoon (I shall message you the playing XI). But yes, we are taking good care of him. Don’t worry, we will make the right decision tomorrow.”
It was a playful way of keeping things under wraps, but his words showed the team is being careful about the decision, and Samson is very much on their minds.
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Samson’s Best Phase Faces a Challenge
Sanju Samson has been enjoying arguably the best stretch of his international career since Gautam Gambhir took charge as India’s head coach. Over the past year, he’s not only scored three T20I centuries but also formed a dynamic opening partnership with Abhishek Sharma. Their attacking starts have often given India the upper hand early in games.
However, the return of Shubman Gill has created fresh competition. Gill’s consistency and his growing reputation as a future leader make him a strong contender for the opener’s role. That puts Samson in a tricky spot, despite his recent form and match-winning knocks. The selectors now face a tough call – stick with Samson’s momentum or back Gill as a long-term option.
Indian Skipper Confident Despite Break From T20Is
Suryakumar also spoke about India’s preparations for the Asia Cup, acknowledging that the team hasn’t played much T20 cricket together since February. Still, he pointed out that the players stayed sharp through IPL 2025 and domestic matches, ensuring they remained in rhythm.
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He expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness and hinted that fans could expect some exciting cricket in the UAE.
Suryakumar said, “Yes, as a team, we played a T20I series in January and February. The boys also played the IPL. But yeah, we haven’t played any cricket together since June. So, let’s see what happens tomorrow.”
With a young side looking to prove itself and key selection decisions hanging in the balance, India’s Asia Cup opener promises plenty of intrigue.
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