Shreyas Iyer in, Sanju Samson out: Former player warns wicket-keeper batter

India are preparing to face Pakistan in the most crucial match of the Asia Cup 2025 group stage on September 14 (Sunday). In their opening game against the UAE, there was a notable alteration in the batting order, which is expected to remain for the remainder of the tournament. Shubman Gill returned to open the batting with Abhishek Sharma, while Sanju Samson was moved down to the middle order. Former India batter and 1983 World Cup winner, Krishnamachari Srikanth, explained that this change could allow Shreyas Iyer to enter the side.

In a video on his YouTube channel, Srikanth warned that this could be a pivotal moment for Samson, suggesting that if he fails to deliver in the middle order, Shreyas Iyer may replace him. He also predicted that Samson could be asked to bat at number five, which might impact his confidence.

“I would say, ‘Be careful, Sanju, this could be a do-or-die opportunity for you. If you don’t score, they might not pick you again. If you underperform in a couple of matches, Shreyas Iyer might come in,” Srikkanth said.

“I think moving Sanju down to No. 5 is likely to make space for Shreyas. I’m not sure if I’m right, but consider this – Sanju hasn’t batted at No. 5 in T20s. His confidence might be affected by that change, and personally, I’m not too comfortable with it,” he added.