India's Asia Cup 2025 campaign is around the corner and selection debates are already heating up. With Suryakumar Yadav leading the side and Shubman Gill confirmed as vice-captain and opener alongside Abhishek Sharma, the spotlight now shifts to the No. 3 slot.
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Both Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma are in contention and former India batter Mohammad Kaif has weighed in with a clear preference.
Mohammad Kaif backs Sanju Samson for No. 3 role in Asia Cup 2025
In a video posted on his Instagram, Kaif said he would like to see Sanju Samson bat at No. 3 ahead of Tilak Varma. He explained that Samson is the most experienced member of the current squad and should be given a consistent run before the T20 World Cup next year.
"Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill will open in the Asia Cup. For the No. 3 spot, I feel Tilak Varma is a youngster and can wait for his turn. Sanju is an experienced batter, and he could be groomed by giving him consistent opportunities at No.3. There is a World Cup after six months, and he deserves a chance,” Kaif said.
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Kaif highlighted that Samson's ability to hit sixes down the ground makes him an ideal option in the middle overs - especially against world-class spinners like Rashid Khan.
He noted that Samson ranks among the IPL's top six-hitters and has already scored multiple T20I centuries - including two in South Africa.
"South Africa has one of the toughest conditions for batting, and he has hit two centuries as an opener there. He plays both pace and spin well, and in the IPL, he scores 400–500 runs every year," Kaif pointed out.
Tilak Varma is still in strong contention
While Kaif's vote goes to Samson, Tilak Varma remains a strong candidate after a breakthrough run at No. 3 - including back-to-back T20I centuries last year. His left-handed option also provides balance to India's batting order - meaning the management will face a tough call when finalizing the playing XI.
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