Dubai, UAE (2025): The Indian team has announced Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma as the two wicketkeepers for the upcoming Asia Cup cricket series, starting September 9 in the United Arab Emirates. This selection has sparked a heated debate among fans and experts about who will make it to the playing XI.

Gavaskar’s Clear Stand on Sanju Samson

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has strongly backed Sanju Samson to start ahead of Jitesh Sharma.

     “If you choose a talented player like Sanju Samson as a key player in the team, you cannot keep him in the reserve line,” Gavaskar said in a recent interview.

He further explained that having two wicketkeeper-batsmen is a “good headache” for the selectors, but added that Samson brings more flexibility.

Sunil Gavaskar said- “If you pick a player like Sanju Samson in the core team, you cannot leave him in reserve – a player like Sanju who can probably bat at No. 3 and can also come in as a finisher at No. 6 if needed. [PTI]#SanjuSamson #AsiaCup2025 pic.twitter.com/zvp1apHMog

— kuldeep singh (@kuldeep0745) September 6, 2025

Why Gavaskar Prefers Samson

Praising Samson’s versatility, Gavaskar noted:

• Batting positions: Samson can bat at number three and also slot in at number six as a finisher.

• Recent form: He has scored over 400 runs in his last 14 T20 internationals, including three centuries.

• Consistency under Gambhir: Since Gautam Gambhir became head coach, Samson has been trusted with more opportunities and has delivered.

“My prediction is that Samson will get the nod over Jitesh Sharma, at least for the first two matches. After that, the decision will depend on his performance,” Gavaskar added.

Where Does Jitesh Sharma Fit In?

While Samson has momentum on his side, Jitesh Sharma is also making a strong case. The Punjab wicketkeeper-batsman has earned a reputation as an explosive finisher in the IPL and domestic cricket. His ability to clear boundaries in the death overs is seen as a valuable asset for India in T20S.

Shubman Gill’s Return Changes the Equation

With Shubman Gill returning as vice-captain, India’s top order will likely feature Gill opening alongside Abhishek Sharma. This means Samson, who has also opened in recent matches, could move down the order to strengthen the middle.

The Finisher’s Puzzle: Rinku Singh vs Shivam Dube

The competition doesn’t end with Samson and Jitesh. Gavaskar also pointed out that India faces another tough choice for the finisher’s role.

• Rinku Singh: In strong form, capable of power-hitting, and can also bowl part-time spin — a big advantage in UAE conditions.

• Shivam Dube: Offers all-round skills, but his recent batting form has been inconsistent. Despite being an all-rounder, even his IPL side, Chennai Super Kings, underused his bowling.

According to Gavaskar, team balance may push selectors to choose only one between Rinku Singh and Shivam Dube, with Axar Patel already locked in as the spin-bowling all-rounder.

A Run Feast Awaits Fans

Indian fans have been starved of action, with no international games in the past month. Now, the Asia Cup 2025 T20 series promises excitement with big names like Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Gill, Samson, Abhishek Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah all returning.

With power-hitters, multiple all-rounders, and a spin-friendly UAE surface, fans are expecting fireworks when the tournament begins on September 9.