Dubai: India’s Asia Cup campaign has brought new challenges for right-handed batter Sanju Samson, who has been slotted into the No. 5 role — a position he is still trying to adapt to. The 30-year-old, who scored a half-century against Oman in the group stage, failed to make an impact in the Super 4s clash against Pakistan at the Dubai International Stadium, where he managed only 13 runs off 17 balls before being dismissed by Haris Rauf.
Management keeps faith in Samson
Ahead of India’s Super 4s fixture against Bangladesh, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate admitted that Samson is yet to find his rhythm in the middle order but insisted that the team management continues to back him fully.
“Yeah, I think he has had two decent chances. And I think he is still figuring out how to play that role. I think the wicket also got a little bit tired in the Pakistan game,” ten Doeschate told reporters.
He further noted that with Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma opening, captain Rohit Sharma at No. 3, and Tilak Varma at No. 4, the No. 5 spot is crucial for balance. “We believe Sanju is the best man for the job. I have no doubt he will figure out how to play that role in the future,” he said.
Struggles in middle-order role
Samson’s career statistics back ten Doeschate’s assessment. While he averages close to 40 as an opener over the past two years, his middle-order returns have been modest, with just one half-century to his name. Even in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Samson has largely preferred top-order roles, making his adaptation at No. 5 a work in progress.
His dismissal against Pakistan drew criticism, as India needed stability in the middle overs, but the team appears willing to give him time to settle in his new slot.
Jitesh and Rinku wait for chances
Despite the presence of Jitesh Sharma and Rinku Singh in the squad — both considered strong middle-order contenders — the management is not planning changes mid-tournament.
“We tried in Abu Dhabi to get these guys some time in the middle. But we are managing things with an eye on doing well in key tournaments like the Asia Cup. Someone like Rinku or Jitesh is unlikely to get game time given the current situation. But they are doing well in training,” ten Doeschate explained.
He suggested bilateral series might provide more realistic opportunities for the bench players. “With the Super Four format, even two wins don’t guarantee progression to the next stage. We can’t afford to take our foot off the pedal,” he added.
Pressure of expectations
For Samson, the Asia Cup represents a defining moment in his international career. With a packed middle order and competition for spots intensifying ahead of future ICC tournaments, his performances at No. 5 could determine his long-term role in the side.
While his attacking game has flourished at the top, adjusting to situations that demand patience and calculated finishing is proving to be a challenge. India’s support staff, however, remains optimistic that Samson can make the transition successfully.
Conclusion
As India continues its Super 4s journey, all eyes will be on Samson’s ability to adapt and deliver in his new role. With the management firmly backing him despite a modest start, the coming matches could decide whether he cements his place as India’s long-term No. 5 or opens the door for challengers like Jitesh and Rinku in future series.