The spotlights are firmly on Sanju Samson as India’s Asia Cup campaign unfolds. Former Indian skipper and selector Kris Srikkanth has issued a stern warning: Samson’s newly assigned No. 5 role may well be his final opportunity to cement a permanent place in the T20I side. With Shreyas Iyer looming as a potential contender for his position, the stakes have never been higher for the wicket-keeper-batter.
Srikkanth raised eyebrows by suggesting that Samson being moved down the order—to No. 5—looks like part of a larger plan to make way for Iyer’s return. Unlike his more established performances as an opener, Samson has had limited exposure in the middle order, and according to Srikkanth, this could hurt his confidence. “To Sanju, I would warn him by saying that this is his last chance,” he said. Srikkanth believed that if Samson fails to deliver in the next two or three innings batting at that position, Iyer might take over. This perspective frames the Asia Cup not merely as another tournament for Samson, but as possibly his final audition for an assured spot.
Statistically, Samson’s switch has coincided with a drop in performance. His batting average and impact have dipped since moving away from opening. In contrast, opening has historically been more comfortable terrain for him—where his strike rate has often thrived, and he’s accumulated higher scores. The change to middle-order duties demands different skills: greater adaptability, handling spin under pressure, maintaining strike rotation, and finishing games. According to Srikkanth, these are areas where Samson has yet to prove himself consistently in recent times.
Beyond batting order, selection dynamics add tension. The inclusion of both Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma as keepers in the squad shows the selectors are keeping their options open. Iyer’s return to fitness and form adds to the uncertainty. For Samson, whether playing behind or ahead of someone like Jitesh, the message is clear—performance at No. 5 will be under the microscope. Srikkanth has called out Samson’s recent lack of high-impact innings, noting that his recent IPL returns and T20I outings haven’t always matched expectations.
Samson’s mentor, Raiphi Gomez, has countered that much of the pressure is external noise, arguing Samson has shown enough versatility in his past performances to adapt. But even with strong support, the external expectations have prioritized immediate results—decisiveness, big scores, and finishing matches. The oversight is that modern T20 formats reward finishers, game-changers, and adaptability under pressure. For Samson, batting at No. 5 isn’t just about slotting into a new position—it’s about demonstrating match-winning ability from that slot.
The Asia Cup thus becomes a crucible for Samson. If he flourishes, especially in the middle overs and during tense chases, he could silence critics and lock in the No. 5 role. But failure to do so may see selection swing in Iyer’s favor. The pressure isn’t new for international cricketers, but for Samson, the confluence of role change, selection competition, and Srikkanth’s “last chance” warning makes this Asia Cup one of the most critical of his career.
In short, while no one is saying Samson is on the brink of being dropped, he is walking a tightrope. The No. 5 assignment is more than just batting deeper—it represents a test of perseverance, skill, and temperament under scrutiny. For Samson, the opportunity is immense; for the selectors, the clarity this tournament offers may guide India’s middle order decisions for months to come.
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