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Asia Cup 2025: Ex-Indian cricketer cites Sanju Samson's struggle to establish himself due to inconsistent performances (Source: Getty Images)

Former Indian cricketer Devang Gandhi feels Sanju Samson has not been able to make himself a regular member of the Indian cricket setup due to his inconsistency. Gandhi also observed Samson's struggles against the short deliveries in the five-match T20I series against England at home.

Samson has been named in India's 15-member Asia Cup squad but is unlikely to feature as vice-captain Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma are set to open the batting, with Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav occupying the No. 3 and No. 4 spots, respectively.

"You can't ignore the talent Samson has, but he is already close to 31. If he could not seal his place, it's because he could never be consistent, even in the IPL. There are obvious issues with him playing the heavy ball. He probably fell behind because he struggled to play the pace of England's bowling attack at home. But if he can show he is flexible enough, he can finally seal his spot," Gandhi was quoted as saying by the Times of India.

The wicketkeeper-batter scored only 51 runs against England in the aforementioned series and was caught out in all five matches, succumbing to the rising delivery time and again. His technique had come under massive scrutiny back in January and February earlier this year.

It is highly improbable that Samson will be adjusted down the order. This makes Jitesh Sharma as the frontrunner for being a part of the XI. Samson is expected to serve as the backup opening batter.

Meanwhile, India have been grouped alongside Pakistan, Oman and United Arab Emirates. They will kickstart their campaign on September 10 with a clash against the hosts at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. They will meet arch-rivals Pakistan on September 14 at the same venue.