Former Indian cricketer Dodda Ganesh vehemently criticized the decision to demote Sanju Samson to the eighth batting position during India`s Asia Cup 2025 Super Four match against Bangladesh on Wednesday. Despite other prominent batsmen like Shivam Dube (at No. 3), Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, and Tilak Varma batting higher, the team management opted to send Axar Patel ahead of Samson in the crucial closing overs. This strategic shuffle ultimately left Samson without an opportunity to bat.
“Sanju Samson at no 8 defies any cricketing logic. It`s simply unacceptable.”
Expressing his strong disapproval on X (formerly Twitter), Ganesh labeled the move `simply unacceptable,` asserting that such a decision `defies any cricketing logic.`
Match Overview: India vs. Bangladesh
Regarding the match itself, India secured a convincing 41-run victory over Bangladesh. Opener Abhishek Sharma`s rapid half-century laid a strong foundation, which was powerfully supported by left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav`s impressive bowling performance. India successfully defended their target of 169, restricting Bangladesh to just 127 runs in 19.3 overs.
Kuldeep Yadav was instrumental with figures of 3/18, ably assisted by Axar Patel (1/37) and Varun Chakaravathy (2/29). For Bangladesh, Saif Hassan was the standout batsman, scoring 69 off 51 deliveries.
Following this result, Sri Lanka has been eliminated from the tournament after losing both their Super Four matches, setting up a virtual knockout clash between Pakistan and Bangladesh on Thursday for a spot in Sunday`s final.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav`s Perspective
Post-match, India`s captain Suryakumar Yadav reflected on the team`s strategy:
“We hadn`t had many opportunities to bat first in this tournament, apart from against Oman, so we were keen to bat first in the Super Fours to test ourselves. Given Bangladesh`s bowling attack, which included a left-arm spinner and a leg-spinner, we felt Dube was the ideal choice for the 7-15 over range. While it didn`t quite pan out as intended, that`s how cricket goes. Had the outfield been quicker, we might have reached 180-185. However, with our strong bowling unit, if we deliver 12-14 effective overs, we`re confident of winning most matches.”
