With the Asia Cup 2025 just a week away, team management faces a tricky batting order dilemma. Former India batter Mohammad Kaif has strongly advocated for Sanju Samson to be given the No.3 slot, suggesting head coach Gautam Gambhir should sideline Tilak Varma despite his recent form.
India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, begin their campaign on September 10 against UAE. Vice-captain Shubman Gill is set to open with Abhishek Sharma, leaving a vacancy at one-drop. Both Tilak and Samson have staked their claims with impressive performances in T20 internationals.
Samson’s Case for No.3
Kaif highlighted Samson’s experience and ability to handle pressure, especially against quality spinners.
“Sanju is an experienced batter, and he could be groomed with consistent opportunities at No.3. With a World Cup six months away, he deserves a chance,” Kaif said on Instagram.
The 30-year-old, who has three T20I centuries (one against Bangladesh and two against South Africa) last year, also impressed in the Kerala Cricket League.
Kaif added that Samson is the best option against bowlers like Rashid Khan, pointing to his reputation as one of the top 10 six-hitters in IPL history.
Tilak Varma’s Challenge
Tilak, however, has also been in red-hot form, smashing back-to-back T20I centuries against South Africa last year. At just 22, he is seen as a long-term investment, but Kaif believes he can afford to “wait his turn” for the Asia Cup.
Samson’s Seniority
Kaif reminded fans that Samson is the most senior player in the squad, having debuted in 2015. He was also part of India’s 2024 T20 World Cup-winning squad in Barbados, where he scored nearly 450 runs at a strike rate of 180.
“He has been in fine touch, scoring runs consistently, and is too hard to ignore for this Asia Cup,” Kaif added.
Asia Cup Schedule
The eight-team tournament begins on September 9 with Afghanistan taking on Hong Kong. India plays its first match on September 10, with the batting order debate likely to be one of the key talking points.
