Asia Cup 2025: 'He is most dangerous as opener'- Ravi Shastri backs Sanju Samson at the top

Shubman Gill's inclusion as vice-captain adds complexity to India's T20I top-order selection for the Asia Cup. While Gill's Test success highlights his leadership potential, Sanju Samson's impressive opening form, including three centuries and a high strike rate, makes him a strong contender. Ravi Shastri advocates for Samson to continue opening, emphasizing his game-changing ability at the top.

Sanju Samson of India (Photo by Darren Stewart/Gallo Images/Getty Images)

Ever since India announced their squad for the Asia Cup, one big question has dominated conversations: with Shubman Gill back in the mix as vice-captain, will Sanju Samson have to make way in the playing eleven? The debate centres around who should open the batting, as Gill’s return could mean India reshuffle their trusted top order for the tournament. Gill, fresh from a prolific Test series against England where he scored 754 runs in five matches as captain, has built his T20 reputation as a reliable opener for Gujarat Titans. Many see him as a natural fit alongside Abhishek Sharma. But accommodating him would mean shifting or even dropping Samson, who has quietly carved out an impressive record at the top in recent months.

How Sanju Samson is preparing for Asia Cup 2025 in Dubai

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Since being given a consistent run after last year’s T20 World Cup, Samson has struck three centuries as an opener, averaging 34.75 with a strike rate of 182.89. Those numbers underline why former coach Ravi Shastri strongly believes Samson deserves to keep his place.

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“Samson is at his most dangerous when he opens. If he fires, he wins you matches on his own. He is best left at the top,” Shastri said during a media interaction. With Jitesh Sharma providing wicketkeeping cover and a clearly defined role in the middle order, the selectors now face a tough and delicate call. Gill’s presence is a clear sign the management sees him as a future all-format leader, but dropping Samson in his current form would be a bold and potentially divisive move.

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