Sanju Samson's Asia Cup spot under threat after Shubman Gill's inclusion: Kaif

Former Indian batter Mohammad Kaif believes Sanju Samson's place in India's playing XI for the upcoming Asia Cup is no longer guaranteed. With Shubman Gill's return to the T20I squad - and his appointment as vice-captain - Kaif expects the management to open the batting with Gill and left-hander Abhishek Sharma. This could potentially push Samson out of the first eleven.

Kaif further suggested that India's top four may already be settled, with Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Tilak Varma, and captain Suryakumar Yadav likely to occupy those positions. This scenario leaves limited room in the middle order, where Jitesh Sharma could be preferred due to his explosive form in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Jitesh played a pivotal role in Royal Challengers Bangalore's maiden title victory.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif said, "I think Sanju Samson's place in the XI is tough. When the team reaches the UAE, they will assess players' form and team balance before finalizing the XI. At the moment, I believe Samson won't come in the top four. Gill and Abhishek Sharma will open, Tilak Varma will bat at No. 3, given his impressive record for India, and Suryakumar Yadav will slot in at No. 4."

Kaif also highlighted Jitesh Sharma's recent performances and hinted that this could work against Samson, who traditionally bats as an opener and wicket-keeper and cannot bat lower down the order.

He added, "If Sanju Samson doesn't make it to the top four, then Jitesh Sharma is a specialist at No. 5 or 6. He has shown good form at those positions and recently helped RCB win the trophy. With Gill becoming vice-captain and opening alongside Abhishek Sharma, it sends a warning sign for Sanju Samson. He might miss out on the playing XI."

Samson's excellent form as an opener in 2024, which included three centuries, has been overshadowed by recent struggles. He scored just 51 runs in five innings against England earlier this year and missed the entire 2025 IPL season due to injuries, finishing with 285 runs from nine matches.