With the Asia Cup 2025 starting on September 9 in the UAE, India’s selectors are under pressure to finalise a wicketkeeper. Sanju Samson, Jitesh Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Dhruv Jurel are all competing for the role, each offering unique strengths and raising key concerns.
Sanju Samson: Records and Concerns
Sanju Samson remains the frontrunner after creating history as the first player to hit three T20I centuries in a year. His unbeaten 109 against South Africa in Johannesburg in November 2024 was a standout knock. However, he also endured five ducks in 13 T20Is last year, which casts doubts on his reliability.
In IPL 2025, Samson managed 285 runs from nine games with just one fifty. Injuries, including a finger fracture and side strain, disrupted his season. Yet, his explosive 107 off 50 balls in Durban last year showed the kind of match-winning ability that keeps him in strong contention.
Jitesh Sharma’s Big-Game Impact
Jitesh Sharma’s T20I career so far reads 100 runs in nine matches at an average of 14.28. His IPL 2025 form, however, tells a different story. In a high-pressure chase against Lucknow Super Giants, he blasted 85* off 33 balls at a strike rate above 257, helping Royal Challengers Bangalore chase 228. Such fearless batting could be valuable for India, provided he translates IPL form into international success.
Ishan Kishan vs Dhruv Jurel: Form vs Potential
Ishan Kishan last played T20Is for India in November 2023, scoring two half-centuries in a series against Australia. His absence from domestic cricket led to losing his central contract in 2024, but he regained a Grade C contract in April 2025.
Dhruv Jurel has featured in four T20Is, managing only 12 runs. His IPL showings have been better, but his lack of international experience is a factor. The choice between Kishan’s experience and Jurel’s promise could be pivotal.
Decision Time for Selectors
With Rishabh Pant sidelined by injury, the competition for the wicketkeeper’s spot is wide open. The selectors’ decision will balance recent form, big-match temperament, and the ability to deliver under Asia Cup pressure.
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