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Asia Cup 2025: Ravi Shastri weighs in on India's playing XI
Indian Test captain Shubman Gill's return to India's squad for the Asia Cup has touched off a discussion surrounding Sanju Samson's place in the playing XI. The central concern revolves around the composition of India's top order. It is likely that Gill will partner with Abhishek Sharma at the top of the order. Gill, who has strengthened his case at the top of the order with swashbuckling performances over the past two years, has become a reliable figure.
On the other hand, Sanju Samson has also stepped up as an opener and impressed with a string of solid performances, showing both form and consistency at the top. Former Indian captain and legend Ravi Shastri has added his voice to the discussion, backing Samson to retain his place in the playing XI and, more importantly, to open the batting for India.
“Samson is at his most dangerous at the top. That is where he can win you matches. If he fires in any of the innings, he wins you matches. He is best left alone at the top,” Shastri said during a virtual media interaction, as quoted by The Hindu.
“When you look at Samson’s record for India in T20Is at the top of the order, even someone like Shubman will be challenged. He may come in for someone else, but I think Samson should be left alone. He is dangerous. He is lethal. He is a match-winner.”
India, who are the defending champions, will open their Asia Cup campaign by facing off against the United Arab Emirates in the second match on Wednesday at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi.
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