India have already sealed their Super 4 spot at the Asia Cup 2025, but their last group match against Oman in Abu Dhabi has brought fresh debates about batting positions.
Former batting coach Sanjay Bangar has given a strong hint that Sanju Samson may finally walk in to bat, and perhaps even ahead of Shivam Dube at No. 5.
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With India’s top order fixed for now, the question remains whether Samson will finally get a chance to show his form on the big stage.
Could India change their batting order against Oman?
According to Bangar, India are unlikely to disturb their top four. Shubman Gill is still looking for a big knock after his comeback, while Abhishek Sharma has been giving quick starts at the top.
Suryakumar Yadav has done well at No. 3, and Tilak Varma got his chance in the middle order too.
“Yes, India will definitely think about batting first. Try to bat first and give your batters an opportunity because the way they [India] have gotten starts by Abhishek Sharma in both matches... Suryakumar Yadav has batted well, but other batters haven’t got many opportunities,” said Bangar.
But the focus now is on the names who have not had a proper chance yet. Samson and Hardik Pandya haven’t faced enough balls in this tournament.
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Bangar pointed out that this might be the perfect match to push Samson higher than Dube, giving him game time before the tougher stages.
“They will stick to the top four, and after that, you might not witness Shivam Dube and Sanju Samson might come ahead because Sanju Samson and Hardik Pandya haven’t had the chance to bat so far,” he added.
Why might India choose to bat first against Oman?
Bangar also suggested that if India win the toss, they might decide to bat first instead of chasing.
The logic is simple- give Samson, Hardik, and others a chance to spend time in the middle, while also preparing the bowlers to handle dew in second innings.
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With the knockout games around the corner, India will want to cover all conditions and possibilities.
“I think if India wins the toss, then they will surely want to bat first. It’s also because the bowlers will get an experience that if there is dew, then they have to bowl with the dew, which can be a factor in the upcoming matches,” he added.
Bangar also spoke about India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav. After guiding India to victory against Pakistan, Surya seems to have found a strong position at No. 3. Bangar feels that the skipper will want to stick to one spot now.
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