Dubai (2025): The Indian cricket team is facing a major selection dilemma ahead of the Asia Cup T20. With Shubman Gill returning as vice-captain after his brilliant Test series against England, the batting order has shifted, putting Sanju Samson’s place in the playing XI under serious doubt.

Gill’s Return Changes the Equation

Gill is almost certain to open the innings alongside Abhishek Sharma. This has created a direct clash between Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma for a middle-order role. Samson, who has made a strong comeback in T20S with three centuries, was expected to secure a slot. But recent events in training camp suggest otherwise.

Practice Drama in Dubai

During a practice match at the ICC Academy, Samson struggled in the Bronco Test, a tough fitness drill. He left the field in discomfort and sat in the ice box for the rest of the session.

Meanwhile, head coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Suryakumar Yadav, and vice-captain Shubman Gill were seen in a long discussion, sparking speculation about Samson’s future in the squad.

Adding fuel to the fire, Samson got very limited practice time, while players like Jitesh Sharma, Rinku Singh, and Tilak Verma had extended net sessions.

Gambhir’s Focus on Jitesh Sharma

What really caught the fans’ eyes was Gambhir’s close involvement with Jitesh Sharma. The coach personally guided him in the centre nets, advising him on shot-making and match situations.

Jitesh last played for India in January 2024, but has been in excellent form since then. In the 2025 IPL, he scored 261 runs in 15 matches at an impressive strike rate of 176 and was one of the key reasons for RCB’s title win.

With this record and Gambhir’s backing, Jitesh now looks the stronger contender for the middle order spot.

Coach Gambhir keeps a close eye on Jitesh’s drills! A glimpse of what’s ahead? 👀 pic.twitter.com/A3B4qf0OpZ

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) September 6, 2025

Fans Rally Behind Samson

At the same time, many fans believe that Samson deserves priority. The 30-year-old has been batting aggressively at the top and has shown the ability to adapt in the middle order, too. His comeback has been marked by consistency, and his supporters argue that his international experience gives him an edge.

What Next for Team India?

The debate over selection is far from over. While training sessions do not always decide the final XI, the signs point towards Jitesh Sharma edging ahead of Sanju Samson.

The first match of the Asia Cup 2025 in the UAE is set to be a blockbuster. With stars like Suryakumar Yadav, Gill, Rinku Singh, and Bumrah returning, fans can expect high-intensity cricket. But the big question remains: Will Sanju Samson find a place, or will Jitesh Sharma take the gloves in the middle order?