Subhechcha Ganguly 
As Team India reached the ICC Academy in Dubai for practice, a young fan repeatedly shouted Sanju Samson’s name, drawing smiles from the wicketkeeper-batter. Samson, who for much of his career struggled to cement a regular spot in the playing XI, has found renewed backing under head coach Gautam Gambhir. The Kerala batter has since become a consistent feature in India’s T20I side, making the most of his chances with strong performances, including multiple centuries.
During India’s practice session at the ICC Academy in Dubai, a young fan repeatedly shouted Sanju Samson’s name, highlighting the wicketkeeper-batter’s growing popularity. Samson, who has thrived under head coach Gautam Gambhir with three T20I centuries since the last World Cup, now faces stiff competition for a place in the Asia Cup 2025 XI.
With Shubman Gill set to open alongside Abhishek Sharma, Samson may lose out to Jitesh Sharma, who offers finishing experience. Despite the uncertainty, Samson has maintained high spirits in training. India, placed in Group A with Pakistan, UAE, and Oman, begin their campaign against the UAE on September 10, before the marquee clash with Pakistan on September 14. Former captain Sunil Gavaskar has backed Samson’s inclusion in the starting lineup.
