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Sanju Samson Bats at No. 5 in KCL, Signaling Asia Cup Middle-Order Trial

With Shubman Gill set to open for India, Samson is positioning himself for a finisher role.

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Sanju Samson plays a shot | Image: ANI

Overview

  • Samson volunteered to bat at No. 5 for Kochi Blue Tigers in the Kerala Cricket League on Thursday, a departure from his usual opening role.
  • He did not face a ball as the Tigers chased 98 in 11.5 overs, with Saly Viswanath guiding the win.
  • Vinoop Manoharan and Jobin Joby opened in Samson’s place, reinforcing the tactical shift reported as preparation for the Asia Cup.
  • Gill’s return as vice-captain reshapes India’s top order, with Tilak Varma and captain Suryakumar Yadav expected at Nos. 3 and 4.
  • Samson’s strongest T20 returns have come at No. 3, while his limited outings at Nos. 5–6 contrast with rival keeper Jitesh Sharma’s proven lower-order hitting.