'Sanju Samson plays pace and spin well' - Shoaib Malik backs India's call to pick RR batter over Jitesh Sharma ahead of IND vs PAK

Divy Dubey

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'Sanju Samson plays pace and spin well' - Shoaib Malik backs India's call to pick RR batter over Jitesh Sharma ahead of IND vs PAK image

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India's unbeaten run in the Asia Cup will see them against Pakistan in Super 4 clash this Sunday. After beating Oman in their final group-stage fixture, India enter the next round with momentum but also with key selection calls to make.

Among them is the wicket-keeper batter slot where Sanju Samson's inclusion has drawn both attention and approval. Former Pakistan all-rounder Shoaib Malik has now weighed in on the debate - offering his take on why Samson's experience and skill make him a good choice.

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Shoaib Malik praises Sanju Samson

Speaking on Tapmad, Malik explained that Samson brings a blend of experience and versatility that suits India in tricky conditions. He stressed that in UAE, runs don't come as easily as in other venues.

This makes batters who can adjust to both pace and spin more important.

"He is experienced and has been playing at a high level for a long time. In tough conditions, you need batters who have faced different situations and know how to adapt. Samson plays both pace and spin well, and that makes him a solid option for India," said Malik.

More: Who will be the match referee for IND vs PAK Super 4 match in Asia Cup 2025?

Malik also said that with India's top order packed with stroke-makers, Samson provides a different dimension - someone capable of consolidating the innings if early wickets fall.

Sanju Samson delivers with fifty against Oman

Samson backed up that faith with a composed half-century against Oman. Coming in at No.3, he made 56 off 45 balls.

More: 'Only reason Irfan Pathan played for India' - Shahid Afridi's brutal dig at ex-Indian pacer amid IND vs PAK controversy

It was not the most fluent knock but it gave India stability on a pitch where stroke-making was not straightforward. That effort came after Samson had no chance to bat in India's first two group games.

By taking his opportunity against Oman, he reminded selectors of his value in pressure situations.

India's wicket-keeper call before Pakistan clash

With Jitesh Sharma also in the squad, the debate over India's keeping option has been ongoing. Malik's endorsement adds weight to the case for Samson, especially given his ability to bat in different positions and read conditions well.

As India prepares for their biggest test yet against Pakistan, the management's call will be closely watched.

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Divy Dubey

Divy Dubey is a content producer for The Sporting News' India edition. He has a passion for cricket and is an avid fan of football. His work spans culture, media, and digital trends. With a background in research and a curiosity-driven approach, he enjoys crafting thoughtful, engaging stories that invite readers to see everyday topics in a new light.