"He was the highest run-getter in 2024…"- Mohammad Kaif bats for inclusion of Sanju Samson in the Indian XI for the Asia Cup 2025

Mohammad Kaif noted that Sanju Samson is the most senior player in India squad for Asia Cup 2025.

Former Indian player Mohammad Kaif has backed Sanju Samson to be part of India’s playing XI during Asia Cup 2025. Notably, Samson opened the batting with Abhishek Sharma in the previous T20I series against England earlier this year.

However, Shubman Gill has returned to the T20I side in the Asia Cup 2025 and has been appointed as vice-captain. He is now expected to take the opening slot with Abhishek Sharma. Hence, Samson’s place in the playing XI is doubtful.

India will be led by Suryakumar Yadav in the Asia Cup 2025, which will commence on September 9 in the UAE. Eight teams will battle for the title in the tournament.

Mohammad Kaif backs Sanju Samson in India’s playing XI during Asia Cup 2025

While speaking in an Instagram video, Kaif said that Samson should get opportunities in the Asia Cup 2025. He also feels that Samson should get the one-down spot in batting.

“Did you know Sanju is the most senior player in India’s Asia Cup squad? He was part of the T20 World Cup-winning squad in 2024. He didn’t get a chance to play there, but when he got the opportunity, Sanju was the highest run-getter in 2024, scoring close to 450 runs at a strike rate of 180,” he said.

Kaif also feels that Samson will be the best batter to counter Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan during the tournament.

“When it comes to hitting sixes, he is in the top 10 in IPL. He also scored two centuries in South Africa. When Rashid Khan will bowl in the middle overs, there is no better player to counter him than Sanju.. There is a World Cup in six months, and Sanju deserves the chance,” he said.

Notably, Samson was also part of the ICC T20 World Cup last year; however, he did not get a chance to play in any games during the tournament. Last year, he slammed he had at a strike rate of 180.16 and also hammered three centuries and one half-century.

Meanwhile, India are part of Group A in Asia Cup 2025 alongside Pakistan, Oman, and UAE. The Men in Blue will play their opening game against UAE on September 10 in Dubai. India are the defending champions of the tournament.

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