Sanju Samson Vs Jitesh Sharma

The Indian squad for the Asia Cup 2025 has been announced, and with it comes a fascinating debate – who should be India’s wicket-keeper in the playing XI? Should it be Sanju Samson, the calm and experienced campaigner, or Jitesh Sharma, the fearless power-hitter who has been turning heads with his explosive batting?

Sanju Samson – Experience and Class at the Top

Sanju Samson may have had a stop-start IPL 2025 due to injury, but he still managed to leave his mark. Scoring 285 runs in just nine matches at a strike rate of 140.69, he once again proved why he is considered one of India’s most dependable batters. With over 4,000 IPL runs to his name, Samson’s experience and ability to control the innings make him a natural choice at No. 3 or No. 4.

More than just numbers, Samson brings composure. He knows how to read situations, absorb pressure, and build an innings – qualities that could prove vital when India faces top sides like Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Jitesh Sharma – The Fearless Finisher

If Samson brings stability, Jitesh Sharma brings fireworks. Playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, he became one of the most dangerous finishers of IPL 2025, scoring 261 runs at a staggering strike rate of 176.35. His 85 off just 33 balls in a record run chase remains one of the highlights of the season.

Jitesh also shone behind the stumps, taking 20 dismissals – the highest by any keeper this season. His energy, quick reflexes, and ability to score at lightning pace make him a tempting choice for the lower-middle order.

Who Gets the Nod in the Playing XI?

This is where it gets tricky. Samson offers stability and experience – something you want at the start of an innings in a high-pressure tournament. Jitesh, on the other hand, gives India that explosive punch at the back end something they’ve been searching for since MS Dhoni’s finishing days.

India might lean towards Samson for the starting XI, but Jitesh’s presence in the squad is not just as a backup. In matches where India needs to chase big totals or wants more power-hitting depth, Jitesh could be the game-changer.

Final Verdict

The Asia Cup 2025 might well see both Samson and Jitesh getting chances depending on match conditions. What’s exciting for Indian fans is that the team finally has two wicket-keeper-batters who bring completely different strengths to the table – one steady, one explosive and both capable of winning matches on their day.