Rahane Hints at Samson Exclusion, Gill-Abhishek Opening Partnership in Asia Cup XI

India batter Ajinkya Rahane believes the return of Shubman Gill—and his appointment as vice-captain for the upcoming Asia Cup—could force the team management into a tough call: leaving out Sanju Samson from the Playing XI.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Rahane said Gill’s form and leadership role make him the frontrunner to open alongside Abhishek Sharma. He added that while Samson has been a consistent T20I performer and a selfless team man, the situation might force India to rethink the balance of their Playing XI.

“Shubman he’s back in the team, I’m sure he is most likely to open with Abhishek Sharma. Personally, I would like to see Sanju Samson in the team because he has done really well. Very confident guy, very good team man. I feel that is a very important thing,” Rahane said.

Samson’s aggressive yet composed batting has been central to India’s recent T20I success. However, Rahane suggested the wicketkeeper-batter might selflessly make way for Gill, given the team’s changing dynamics and Gill’s leadership role.

“Sanju is a great team man, but that’s a very good problem to have for the team management. In my opinion, probably Sanju Samson will sit out, though as I said, I would like him to play and be in the playing XI. But Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma will open the innings for the team,” Rahane added.

Gill’s numbers underline why he is hard to ignore. He finished as the top run-getter in the Test series in England, smashing 754 runs in just five matches at an average of 75.40, including four centuries. In the IPL, too, he scored 650 runs at a strike rate of 155.87, playing a pivotal role in taking Gujarat Titans into the playoffs.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar recently admitted the final call on the Playing XI will rest with the captain and coach, keeping fans guessing ahead of India’s opener in Dubai.

"Captain-coach will take the call on the best balance for the team. Once we get to Dubai, will have a bit more clarity. More options available now, Shubman been in great form anyway last few months. So has Sanju. so two good options, along with Abhishek," Agarkar said during the squad announcement in Mumbai.

Fans, meanwhile, can only wait to see whether form, loyalty, or tactical needs win out when India take the field in Dubai.