While questions remain over Sanju Samson’s role in India’s T20I squad, Gambhir’s big smile during their conversation could hint at the coach’s confidence in him.
Sanju Samson’s Asia Cup Prospects Brighten Amid Bonding with Coach Gautam Gambhir
Sanju Samson’s international career is once again under scrutiny ahead of the 2025 Asia Cup. Although he had adapted well as India’s replacement opening batter in T20Is for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, recent developments have raised questions about his spot, particularly with Shubman Gill emerging as a strong contender.
However, there is a silver lining for Sanju Samson’s supporters. Recent images and videos from the Indian Asia Cup training camp at the ICC Academy in Dubai show Samson spending time with coach Gautam Gambhir. On the eve of the tournament, the pair appear to be forming a positive rapport.
Shared on social media platform X, the posts capture Gambhir smiling broadly while interacting with Samson—a rare display of warmth from the usually intense coach. He was also seen walking with the wicketkeeper-batter at the end of training and engaging in discussion, moments interpreted by some fans as a subtle vote of confidence in Samson retaining his role as India’s T20I opener.
That smile on Gauti bhai’s face when he sees Sanju 🤝❤️ pic.twitter.com/0OicCrja8w
— Ajay Gurjar (@imAJGurjar) September 5, 2025
All hopes on @GautamGambhir . Hope he doesn't treat Sanju Samson like our previous coaches did. pic.twitter.com/bCBvmDo05I
— Anurag™ (@Samsoncentral) September 6, 2025
The Rajasthan Royals skipper was also spotted walking arm-in-arm with Jasprit Bumrah, highlighting the rapport he has built with the more experienced players in an otherwise young and fresh squad.
BUMRAH × SANJU 🥶🔥 pic.twitter.com/vPIToJgn20
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) September 5, 2025
What does Gill’s inclusion say about Samson’s role?
Some analysts suggest that Samson might still feature in the squad, albeit in a different capacity. His wicketkeeping skills give him a valuable edge in a team without Rishabh Pant or KL Rahul. This makes him a strong candidate for a lower-order or finisher role, potentially ahead of players like wicketkeeping backup Jitesh Sharma, who are more accustomed to that position.
In recent warm-up games in Kerala, Samson batted lower down the order, hinting that this may be the role envisioned for him. While Gautam Gambhir’s final decision will be revealed in India’s opener, Samson’s talent and adaptability suggest he can make the transition smoothly.