'I need to be a joker, a villain': Sanju Samson opens up on Asia Cup role shuffle

Sanju Samson, India’s wicketkeeper-batter, finds himself in a constantly shifting role at the ongoing Asia Cup 2025 despite his impressive record as an opener. Since India’s T20 World Cup triumph last June, Samson has opened in all 17 matches, scoring 487 runs at a strike rate of 171.47, including three centuries. Yet, he has not been used as a designated opener in this tournament.

Instead, the Kerala cricketer has been moved around the order. In four games so far, he has batted only twice — making 56 at No. 3 against Oman and then coming in at No. 5 versus Pakistan. In the Super Four clash against Bangladesh, Samson was pushed down to No. 8, a decision that drew criticism given the team management had previously suggested he was being groomed for the No. 5 slot.

When quizzed by Sanjay Manjrekar on his preferred position, Samson gave a candid response, likening his adaptability to that of veteran actor Mohanlal. “Recently, our Lalettan — Mohanlal, the cinema actor from Kerala — received a big national award. He has been acting for over 30-40 years, playing all kinds of roles. I’ve also been playing for India for 10 years. I can’t say I’ll only do the hero’s role. I need to be a villain, I need to be a joker. I need to adapt. Yes, I’ve scored runs as an opener, but why can’t I also be a good villain?” Samson said.

Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate had earlier backed Samson for the middle-order role, saying: “Sanju has had two decent chances and is still figuring out how to play at No. 5. We believe he’s the best man for that job and have no doubt he’ll master it.”

Still, the constant reshuffling has left Samson juggling responsibilities, testing both his adaptability and patience.