As India gears up for the Asia Cup 2025, one of the biggest talking points has been the batting order conundrum. With a strong pool of talent available, the management faces tough decisions, particularly when it comes to fitting Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma into the playing XI.
Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has voiced his opinion, backing Samson to bat at No.3 while suggesting that Tilak might have to make way. This bold recommendation has sparked a fresh debate among fans and experts alike.
India’s Asia Cup Campaign
The tournament kicks off for India on September 10 against the UAE, with Suryakumar Yadav leading the side. The squad also sees Shubman Gill named as vice-captain, which almost guarantees him a spot as an opener alongside Abhishek Sharma.
That leaves the critical No.3 position up for grabs a role that could very well decide the balance of India’s batting order.
Sanju Samson: A Proven Match-Winner
Over the past year, Sanju Samson has enjoyed a purple patch in T20 internationals.
- Three T20I Centuries in 2024: Samson notched up one century against Bangladesh and two against South Africa, showcasing his ability to dominate quality bowling attacks.
- Kerala Cricket League Form: Even in domestic cricket, Samson has impressed. Initially struggling in the middle order, he returned to opening duties and immediately rediscovered his rhythm.
- Versatility: While known primarily as an opener, Samson has the game to adapt, making him a strong candidate for the pivotal No.3 spot.
Kaif’s endorsement stems from Samson’s ability to accelerate early while also building partnerships—qualities essential at first drop in T20 cricket.
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Tilak Varma: The Rising Star
On the other hand, Tilak Varma has been nothing short of sensational since breaking into the Indian T20I setup.
- Back-to-Back Centuries: Against South Africa last year, Tilak proved his big-match temperament with consecutive hundreds.
- Consistency at No.3: He has made the most of every opportunity in that role, lending stability and left-handed variety to India’s batting lineup.
- Youthful Energy: At just 22, Tilak represents the next generation of Indian cricket—a fearless striker who can counter spin in the middle overs.
Dropping him won’t be straightforward, as his performances have already made him a fan favorite and a player the management trusts in crunch situations.
The Shubman Gill Factor
With Gill set to open, the dynamics of the top order change significantly. His technique and reliability at the top allow India to experiment with more aggressive options at No.3. This creates a direct face-off between Samson and Tilak:
- Samson brings experience and explosiveness.
- Tilak offers stability and left-handed balance.
Both arguments are compelling, which explains why this has become one of India’s most challenging selection dilemmas ahead of the tournament.
Expert View: Mohammad Kaif’s Call
Kaif made his stance clear:
“Sanju Samson deserves to play at No.3 ahead of Tilak Varma.”
His reasoning is based on Samson’s recent run of form and his ability to score quickly, which could be crucial in the powerplay-to-middle overs transition. However, this view also ignites debate, as it potentially sidelines a promising youngster who has excelled in the same position.
Selection Headache for Gautam Gambhir
India’s new head coach, Gautam Gambhir, faces the tricky task of finalizing the XI. Known for his aggressive mindset as a player, Gambhir will have to strike the right balance between backing experience and investing in youth.
- If he opts for Samson, it shows trust in a senior campaigner who has finally found consistency.
- If Tilak keeps his place, it signals a long-term vision of grooming the next generation.
Either way, the decision will be scrutinized heavily, especially if results don’t go India’s way early in the tournament.
Why This Decision Matters
In T20 cricket, the No.3 position is often the most crucial slot:
- If an opener falls early, No.3 must stabilize the innings.
- If the openers get a strong start, No.3 must accelerate and capitalize.
This dual responsibility requires a batter who can adapt to different match scenarios quickly. Samson’s aggressive stroke play and Tilak’s calm temperament both fit the bill—but only one can be trusted with the role in the Asia Cup opener.
Looking Beyond the Asia Cup
The selection battle also has larger implications. With the 2026 T20 World Cup on the horizon, India’s team management is keen to finalize a stable core. Decisions made in this tournament could shape the roadmap for the next global event.
Will India lean on experience, or take a bold call to back youth in high-pressure games?
Final Thoughts
The Samson vs Tilak debate has given Indian cricket fans much to discuss ahead of the Asia Cup 2025. Both players have proven themselves in recent months, and neither deserves to sit out. Yet, the realities of team balance mean one of them might have to make way.
For now, the spotlight is firmly on Gautam Gambhir and the selection committee. Whichever way they go, the decision will reflect India’s strategy—not just for the Asia Cup, but for the future of its T20 setup.
One thing is certain: with players of such caliber fighting for a single spot, India’s batting depth looks stronger than ever.
