The composition of India’s playing eleven for the Asia Cup 2025 continues to be a subject of discussion, with speculation surrounding Shubman Gill’s potential role as an opener, possibly ahead of Sanju Samson. In response, Samson delivered a powerful performance in the Kerala Cricket League, showcasing his batting prowess. Playing for Kochi Blue Tigers, captained by his brother, Sali Samson, the wicketkeeper-batsman produced a scintillating century, leaving the opposition bowlers in disarray.
The match took place in Thiruvananthapuram, where Kochi was set a demanding target of 237 runs against Kollam Sailors. Recognizing the need for a quick start, Samson opened the batting. This followed his experiment with the middle order in the prior two matches. His position as an opener for the Asia Cup was not guaranteed, prompting the tactical changes. After an unsuccessful performance in the middle order in the previous match, Samson aimed to make a statement.
As a regular opener for India over the past year, Samson started strong, hitting boundaries from the initial ball. He hit four consecutive boundaries in the third over. In the fourth over, he hit three fours and a six in four balls, achieving his half-century in just 16 deliveries. Samson maintained his aggressive approach, with his team reaching 100 runs during the powerplay. His explosive century was completed in the 14th over, in a remarkable 42 balls. This innings included 13 fours and 5 sixes, making him only the second player this season to reach a century in the league.