Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed concern over Sanju Samson’s place in the playing XI, noting it might be “in a bit of danger” following Shubman Gill’s inclusion for the upcoming Asia Cup (September 9-28) in the UAE.
The Indian squad was revealed on Tuesday, with Suryakumar Yadav as captain and Gill as vice-captain.
In his YouTube show ‘Ash ki Baat,’ Ashwin commented: “What worries me is that with Gill as vice-captain, Sanju Samson’s spot seems threatened. It’s a done deal. Sanju won’t play because Gill will. If Gill is in, he bats at three, leaving no opening spot for Sanju.”
Samson has excelled as an opener for India, partnering with Abhishek Sharma. Since the last T20 World Cup, he has accumulated 487 runs in 17 T20Is, including three centuries, averaging 34.78.
Jitesh Sharma has been selected as a backup wicketkeeper-batter for Samson.
Earlier this year, Sharma scored an unbeaten 85 off 33 balls (8 fours, 6 sixes), aiding Royal Challengers Bengaluru in achieving the third-highest successful run chase in IPL history against Lucknow Super Giants.
Ashwin praised Sharma, saying, “I’m very pleased for Jitesh Sharma; he’s earned his spot. He played a fantastic innings for RCB against LSG.”
India will begin their Asia Cup journey against the UAE on September 10, with a major clash against Pakistan on September 14, both matches in Dubai. Their final group stage match against Oman is on September 19 in Abu Dhabi.
Post the group stage, the top two from each group will advance to the Super 4 round.
If India tops Group A, all Super 4 matches will be in Dubai. Otherwise, one will be in Abu Dhabi, and the rest in Dubai.
The Super 4 runs from September 20 to 26, with the final in Dubai on September 28.
