The whispers around Sanju Samson’s place in the Indian cricket team have grown into a resonant chorus, and now they have the backing of one of the game’s most authoritative voices. Sunil Gavaskar, the legendary former captain and batting icon, has thrown his weight behind the Kerala wicketkeeper-batter, advocating for his inclusion in India’s starting XI for the Asia Cup 2025. In a cricketing landscape often dominated by conservative selection policies, Gavaskar’s endorsement isn’t just an opinion—it’s a statement.
Samson’s journey in international cricket has been a rollercoaster of fleeting opportunities and unfulfilled promise. Despite a stellar IPL 2025 season where he amassed 550 runs at a strike rate of 155, his appearances in the blue jersey have been sporadic. Yet, Gavaskar’s support hinges on more than just numbers. “Sanju brings a fearless approach at the top or middle order,” Gavaskar noted in a recent discussion. “His ability to play both pace and spin, coupled with his agility behind the stumps, makes him a multi-dimensional asset—especially in UAE conditions where the Asia Cup is likely to be held.”
The context here is critical. India’s middle-order conundrum post the retirements of stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma has left a void that demands fresh energy. Samson, at 30, represents a blend of experience and audacity. His recent century against South Africa A in a tour match, scored under pressure on a tricky pitch, underscored his maturity. Yet, the selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, has often preferred the consistency of KL Rahul or the explosiveness of Rishabh Pant when fit. Gavaskar’s intervention challenges this status quo, emphasizing Samson’s utility as a floater who can adapt to situations—a must in tournament cricket.
But why does this matter now? The Asia Cup 2025 isn’t just another bilateral series; it’s a precursor to the ICC Champions Trophy 2026 and a litmus test for India’s rebuilding phase. With Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh boasting formidable attacks, India needs firepower that can dismantle bowling plans. Samson’s record against spin—a 145 strike rate in the middle overs in IPL 2025—aligns perfectly with the slow, turning tracks expected in the UAE. Moreover, his leadership experience with Rajasthan Royals adds a strategic layer, potentially easing the burden on captain Shubman Gill.
However, the path isn’t without hurdles. Samson’s detractors point to his occasional inconsistency and a perceived vulnerability against high-quality pace early in his innings. Yet, Gavaskar counters this by highlighting Samson’s improved shot selection in domestic circuits and his hunger to prove himself. “He’s waited his turn, and now is the moment to harness that potential,” Gavaskar asserted.
From an Indian fan’s perspective, this debate taps into a larger narrative: the tension between established hierarchies and meritorious newcomers. Samson’s case echoes the struggles of past talents like Suresh Raina or Yuvraj Singh, who needed champions in high places to break through. If Gavaskar’s push translates into policy, it could redefine India’s approach to squad building—prioritizing dynamism over dogma.
As the selectors meet later this month to finalize the Asia Cup squad, all eyes will be on whether Samson’s name features in the core group. Gavaskar’s endorsement has undoubtedly shifted the discourse, but ultimately, it will be Samson’s bat that does the talking. For now, though, one thing is clear: in the high-stakes world of Indian cricket, having a Sunny-bhai on your side is half the battle won.
