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Sanju Samson has secured his place in India's playing XI for their Asia Cup clash in Dubai, despite speculation surrounding Shubman Gill's return and Tilak Varma's presence. India has strategically bolstered their batting lineup by including Shivam Dube and surprisingly excluding Arshdeep Singh. India won the toss and chose to bowl first.

Star wicketkeeper Sanju Samson retained his spot in India's playing XI for the Asia Cup T20 opener against hosts UAE in Dubai on Thursday, even with vice-captain Shubman Gill returning to the side.

With Shubman Gill returning as T20I vice-captain, the management is certain to prefer a Gill - Abhishek Sharma opening combination. In that case, Sanju Samson may have to give up his opening role. But is that the right call? Or should the management continue with the Samson - Abhishek pairing?

Shubman Gill's inclusion as vice-captain adds complexity to India's T20I top-order selection for the Asia Cup. While Gill's Test success highlights his leadership potential, Sanju Samson's impressive opening form, including three centuries and a high strike rate, makes him a strong contender. Ravi Shastri advocates for Samson to continue opening, emphasizing his game-changing ability at the top.

Ravi Shastri advocates for wrist-spinners Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav in India's Asia Cup XI, emphasizing Kuldeep's peak form. He believes Surya Kumar Yadav is a capable T20 captain, leading a fearless and talented team. Shastri acknowledges Jasprit Bumrah's brilliance but cautions against complacency, highlighting the need for spinners to perform well.

Suryakumar Yadav's playful banter with Sanju Samson during Team India's Asia Cup 2025 practice in Dubai injected humor into the camp. Samson, vying for an opening spot, received strong fan support, while the team intensely trained for the tournament. The BCCI unveiled the official jersey, emphasising the team's determination to defend their title as Asian champions.

Sanjay Bangar shared a story. Shubman Gill's initial net practice amazed everyone. Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, and Ravi Shastri were present. Gill's batting impressed Kohli. Kohli felt he lacked Gill's talent at 19. Shastri wanted Gill in the playing eleven immediately. Gill's talent was evident from the start. Everyone realized his special ability during that session.

Virender Sehwag revealed the emotional toll of India's losses to Pakistan, admitting they sometimes disrupted his focus. Despite averaging 50.65 against them, the frequent defeats affected him deeply. He fondly recalled his masterful 119 against Pakistan in 2008 while fasting, showcasing his determination. India is set to face Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

India's Asia Cup 2025 preparations intensified in Dubai, with top-order batsmen like Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, and Suryakumar Yadav focusing on aggressive, aerial hitting during practice. Abhishek Sharma stood out with his effortless six-hitting. Bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh kept the intensity high, while coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav were seen in tactical discussions.

Madan Lal discussed India's potential opening pair for the Asia Cup 2025, favoring Abhishek Sharma's explosiveness alongside Shubman Gill's anchoring ability. He emphasized the crucial role of spinners in Dubai's hot conditions, highlighting India's strong spin attack. India's campaign begins against the UAE, followed by a high-stakes match against Pakistan, with the Super 4 stage determining the finalists.

Team India has commenced preparations for their Asia Cup 2025 title defense with a rigorous practice session in Dubai, fueled by coach Gautam Gambhir's call to seize every opportunity. Key players like Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill participated in extensive drills, emphasising the team's focus on acclimatisation and skill enhancement.

India commenced their Asia Cup 2025 preparations with an inspiring session led by coach Gautam Gambhir. The team aims to build on recent successes as they face tough group stage opponents in the UAE.

India's cricket team concluded their Dubai practice, gearing up to defend their Asia Cup title. Key players like Gill and Yadav participated in batting sessions, while Bumrah rejoined after a break. The team, under coach Gambhir, is set to face UAE, Pakistan, and Oman in Group A, aiming to continue their Asia Cup dominance.

Asia Cup 2025: India completed their first full practice session ahead of the Asia Cup, which starts on September 10. The team focusses on key players' fitness and acclimatisation ahead of crucial matches.

Mohammad Kaif advocates for Sanju Samson to bat at No.3 in the Asia Cup 2025, ahead of Tilak Varma. Citing Samson's experience and form, Kaif believes he's ideal against Afghanistan, especially facing Rashid Khan. He highlighted Samson's IPL record, South African centuries, and Kerala Cricket League performance.

Team India will participate in the Asia Cup 2025 without a lead sponsor after Dream11 ended its contract due to new online gaming regulations. Consequently, the 'India' logo on the team's jerseys will be more prominent.

Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan feels the return of Shubman Gill in T20Is won't put any extra pressure on Suryakumar Yadav as he's not an insecure player.

Robin Uthappa suggests Shubman Gill's selection for the T20I Asia Cup and his vice-captaincy might be influenced by star power and marketing considerations, despite his recent strong Test performance. Uthappa believes that India has a history of backing superstars, and Gill's inclusion aligns with this trend, especially after a successful IPL 2025 season.

Rohit Sharma, India's ODI captain, was recently filmed in a light-hearted video with the team physiotherapist after undergoing a fitness test in Bengaluru alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Shubman Gill. Having retired from Test cricket, Rohit is set to play for India A against Australia A in Kanpur as preparation for the upcoming ODI tour of Australia in October.

Sanju Samson showcased his exceptional form in the Kerala Cricket League, smashing 83 off 41 balls, marking his fourth consecutive fifty-plus score. This performance arrives as he vies for an opening position in the Asia Cup squad alongside Shubman Gill.