It was a night of mixed emotions for Sanju Samson in Dubai, even as India comfortably secured their spot in the Asia Cup 2025 final. While the Men in Blue clinched a decisive 41-run victory over Bangladesh, Samson found himself in a challenging position, neither getting a chance to bat nor holding onto a crucial catch in the deep.
The turning point for Samson’s evening came during the 16th over of Bangladesh’s chase. Varun Chakaravarthy delivered a ball that forced Saif Hassan into a misjudged slog-sweep. Samson, positioned at mid-wicket, lunged desperately for the catch, but to his dismay, the ball agonizingly slipped through his gloves. This marked the second dropped chance in that very over, encapsulating a frustrating performance for the wicketkeeper-batter.
Despite Samson’s on-field struggles, his dropped catch ultimately had no bearing on the game’s outcome. Bangladesh was eventually bowled out for 127 runs in 19.3 overs, well short of India’s target of 169. India’s bowling attack was clinical, spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah (2/18), Kuldeep Yadav (3/18), and Varun Chakaravarthy (2/29), with Axar Patel (1/37) and even the part-time spinner Tilak Varma (1/1 in 0.3 overs) contributing effectively.
Earlier in the match, Suryakumar Yadav’s side put up a strong total of 168/6 after winning the toss and choosing to bat first. The innings was highlighted by Abhishek Sharma’s explosive knock of 75 runs off just 37 balls, featuring six fours and five sixes. Shubman Gill chipped in with 29 runs, while Hardik Pandya added a quickfire 38. Although Bangladesh’s bowlers, especially Mustafizur Rahman (1/31) and Rishad Hossain (2/27), managed to contain runs in the middle overs, India’s strong start had already set a formidable foundation.
In their pursuit of the target, Bangladesh’s batting lineup never truly settled. Only opener Saif Hassan managed to show significant resistance, scoring 69 runs off 51 balls. However, with insufficient support from his teammates, reaching India’s total proved to be an insurmountable challenge.
India’s flawless performance in this match ensures their unbeaten streak continues as they march into the Asia Cup final. While it may have been a day Sanju Samson would rather forget, he’ll undoubtedly be looking forward to contributing more significantly in the crucial battles ahead, with the championship trophy within reach.