Follow UsDespite playing as a top-order batter his whole life, Sanju Samson has had to adjust to a new role in India’s crowded middle-order. Thus far in the Asia Cup 2025, the right-hander has only had two opportunities with the bat, 56 against Oman and 13 against Pakistan, where he had to bat out of position.
In the aftermath of his struggle against Pakistan, India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate came in support of Samson, stating that he’s still ‘adapting’ to his role. Now, Samson has responded about his role, insisting that he can’t pick and choose his role in the Indian team, and has to be ready to do anything.
The Kerala batter used legendary actor Mohalal’s reference, pointing out that he has to be ready to be the ‘villain or the joker’ according to the team’s demands.
“There’s our actor, Mohanlal, who got a big award from the Indian government (the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest award in the field of cinema). He has been an actor for 20, 30, 40 years. I have been playing for India for 10 years. So, I can’t come in and say ‘I only can do the hero role.’ I need to be a villain. I need to be a joker. I need to play around,” Samson told Sony Sports Network.
In the clash against Bangladesh, despite India losing quick wickets in the middle-order, Samson never came out to bat, as Axar Patel was promoted above him. The Delhi Capitals all-rounder struggled in his time out in the middle, scoring just 10 off 15 balls, as Samson watched him from the dug-out.
“You can’t say that you have scored runs in the opening position and you are really good in the top three spots. I feel let me try this also. No one can say why I can’t be a good villain. Let’s see how it goes.”
Samson might well get his opportunity in India’s last Super 4 clash against Sri Lanka, on September 26 (Friday).
*Cover image: AP