Before the Asia Cup, Sanju Samson played a sensational knock in the Kerala Cricket League (KCL), scoring a brilliant century for Kochi Blue Tigers. He completed his half-century in just 16 balls and reached his hundred in 42 balls, boosting his chances of making it to the playing XI for the Asia Cup.
Sanju Opens the Innings
In this match, Sanju came out to open the innings, unlike his earlier games where he batted in the middle order without much success. Eriz Kollam Sailors batted first and posted a big total of 236 runs. While chasing 237 runs, Kochi Blue Tigers made a rapid start and scored 100 runs for the loss of one wicket in just 6 overs, thanks to Sanju’s aggressive batting.
121 Runs off 51 Balls
Sanju Samson played the best knock of the KCL season so far, scoring 121 runs off just 51 balls. His innings included 14 fours and 7 sixes. He registered the fastest fifty of the season in 16 balls and completed his century in 42 balls. Sanju was dismissed on the first ball of the 19th over, but his innings helped Kochi Blue Tigers chase down the target on the last ball, winning the match by 4 wickets.
Selected in India’s Asia Cup Squad
Sanju Samson has been included in India’s 15-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025, starting on 9th September in the UAE. However, securing a place in the playing XI could be challenging for him.
Tough Competition for Playing XI Spot
Shubman Gill, who is also part of the squad and appointed as vice-captain, is expected to open the innings. If Gill opens, Sanju may have to bat in the middle order. However, his T20I record in the middle order is not very strong. He has batted at number five or lower in only 7 innings, scoring 93 runs in total, with his highest being 30 not out. Sanju prefers opening the innings, and his recent KCL performance once again proves he is most effective at the top.