While fans were consumed with the standard issues after India beat Pakistan in the 2025 Asia Cup—big runs, bowling changes, atmosphere, etc.—away from that noise could be found Robin Uthappa, who dropped a truth bomb that might redefine Sanju Samson’s trajectory with Team India. He said Forget about opening dreams for now—Samson needs to reinvent himself as a finisher. Bold statement? Definitely. But when we dig beyond the surface, it might start to make some sense.
Why the Finisher Role Is Samson’s Golden Ticket
Let’s be honest: Samson has thrived as an opener in T20Is. He looked unstoppable with three centuries in his last 12 innings before the Asia Cup. But cricket is a cruel game, and with Shubman Gill slotting back into the XI, the Kerala star suddenly finds himself pushed down the order. That’s not just a change of batting position—it’s a whole new skillset.
Uthappa’s take is simple but sharp: if Samson wants a long career in this team, he needs to become a reliable finisher. India already has a crowded top order with Rohit, Gill, Abhishek Sharma, and others in the mix. The middle order, however, demands something different—ice-cold nerves, the ability to attack from ball one, and the temperament to close games. Samson hasn’t cracked that code yet, averaging under 19 in the middle-order slots. But Uthappa believes that with the right mindset and practice, Samson could turn this into his ticket for longevity.
The Jitesh Sharma Factor – Competition He Can’t Ignore
Here is a component that should have Samson supporters a little uneasy: Jitesh Sharma. The Punjab wicketkeeper has established himself as a fearless finisher, a player who relishes the mayhem of chasing runs in the death overs and swings for the rafters. Yes, Jitesh has a streaky side to his game, but when he hits, he is made for those last few overs.
That’s the yardstick Samson is being measured against. Uthappa’s warning is clear—Sanju can’t just coast on his opening numbers. If he doesn’t adapt, he risks being leapfrogged by someone hungrier for that role. It’s not a question of talent (Samson oozes it); it’s about role clarity. Finishing is a specialist’s job, and right now, India is searching for someone who can consistently own it.
The Path to Becoming India’s Reliable Finisher
It’s about building muscle memory, but also mental clarity. The best finishers—think MS Dhoni in his prime or even Hardik Pandya now—don’t panic when the run rate climbs. They’ve trained themselves to believe that 15 needed off the last over isn’t a death sentence. Samson has the raw power, the range against spin, and the flair to do it. What he needs is discipline and repetition until finishing becomes second nature.
We should also remember that there is team balance in India. Bumrah is the only specialist pacer among mainly all-rounders such as Hardik and Axar. This is a team that has been built on flexibility. If Samson can play the role of a reliable finisher, that will not only help his career but also represent a revolutionary dimension in the batting strategy for Team India.
FAQs
- Why did Robin Uthappa suggest Sanju Samson should become a finisher?
Because India’s top order is packed, Samson’s long-term spot depends on adapting to the middle-order finisher role.
- How has Sanju Samson performed as a middle-order batter in T20Is?
He has averaged under 19 in 21 innings between No. 3 to 7.
- Who is Samson’s main competition for the finisher’s role?
Jitesh Sharma, who is known for his fearless finishing ability.
