The debate over India’s batting order has intensified ever since Shubman Gill’s inclusion in the squad. Recently, Sanju Samson showcased his batting stance during the Kerala Cricket League (KCL), coming in at number six a position where he looked visibly uncomfortable, managing just 13 runs off 22 balls.
Since Gill’s entry into the Indian team, questions about the batting lineup have been flying around. Will Samson make it to the playing XI? Will Gill open the batting or slot into the third position? Well, Samson himself has now put an end to these speculations, clarifying his role in the team’s plans.
Having successfully opened in the last three T20I series for India, Samson is now returning to the middle order a role he’s familiar with and prefers.
Samson’s Batting Role Clear in Kerala League
In preparation for the Asia Cup, Samson participated in the Kerala Cricket League, opting to bat at number six for Cochin Blue Tigers. A few days earlier, former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar had suggested that Samson should bat at number six, a recommendation that initially drew mixed reactions.
Samson, however, quickly proved his adaptability by choosing to bat at number five in his first match for KCL’s Blue Tigers. Although he didn’t get a chance to bat in that game, he moved to number six in the next match. Unfortunately, his stint at the lower middle order was somewhat uncomfortable he scored just 13 runs off 22 balls and was dismissed.
Interestingly, reports indicated that Samson was unwell during this period and had even visited the hospital. There was speculation that his health issues might have influenced his decision to bat at five. But by the second match, it became evident that the shift to number six was a strategic move.
The Indian team management seems to have informed him that he wouldn’t be given a top-order role in the upcoming Asia Cup.
In the match against Alappuzha Ripples, Samson came in when the team was 108/4 after nine overs. His arrival slowed down the scoring rate significantly.
He didn’t hit a single boundary or run a single two, and his entire innings was characterized by singles and dots a clear sign of trying to stabilize rather than accelerate.
Reports also suggest that despite running a fever, Samson played the Kerala League match, demonstrating his commitment and grit. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill, who is also battling illness, faces doubts about his participation in the upcoming Duleep Trophy, adding to the uncertainty over the team’s batting order.
Samson’s Proven Record as an Opener
Sanju Samson has batted at every position from one to seven in T20Is for India. But over the past 13 months, his most prolific performances have come when opening the innings.
The competition for other batting slots remains fierce with Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav firmly holding down the three and four spots.
Samson could potentially bat at number five, a role he has often played for Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League. The team management might prefer Shivam Dube at that position, given his left-handed power-hitting, ability to clear the spinners, and versatility as a part-time bowler.
If Dube isn’t preferred, Hardik Pandya or Jitesh Sharma could step in. Rinku Singh and Axar Patel are also viable options to strengthen the middle order.
As the Asia Cup approaches, the question remains: will Samson be content with his role in the middle order, or will the team’s opening options and competition force a rethink? One thing is clear the man himself has laid out his preference, and his performances in the league suggest he’s ready to adapt and excel where he’s best suited.
**In essence, the batting order is still a work in progress, but one thing is certain Sanju Samson has made his stance clear. The middle order is where he sees himself, and he’s prepared to make it work, no matter the challenge.**
