India vs UAE Predicted Playing XI, Asia Cup 2025: Sanju Samson IN or OUT?

The Asia Cup 2025 has kicked off with high-voltage excitement, and India’s opening clash against UAE at the Dubai International Stadium is already creating headlines. While fans are eager to see their favorite stars in action, the biggest debate is around Sanju Samson’s place in the playing XI.

Sanju Samson – The Selection Debate

Sanju Samson has always been a fan favorite, admired for his elegant stroke play and explosive hitting ability. However, when it comes to the Indian team’s balance, his position has often been uncertain.

For today’s Asia Cup opener, reports from practice sessions and expert opinions suggest that Samson is likely to be left out of the XI, with Jitesh Sharma taking the wicketkeeper-batter’s slot.

• R. Ashwin’s analysis: Former India spinner R. Ashwin picked his predicted XI and did not include Samson, backing Shubman Gill’s comeback at the top of the order and Jitesh Sharma’s inclusion in the middle order.
• Practice sessions hint: Jitesh was seen keeping wickets and batting extensively in the nets, while Samson had limited involvement.
• Media buzz: NDTV, Times of India, and other outlets have also predicted that Samson will not feature in today’s starting lineup.

This suggests that the management is looking for a specialist wicketkeeper-finisher role, something Jitesh has excelled in during recent matches.

India’s Probable Playing XI vs UAE

Based on team combinations, form, and reports from Dubai, here’s India’s likely XI for today’s clash:

1. Shubman Gill (vc) – Back as opener and vice-captain, crucial for setting the tone.
2. Abhishek Sharma – Young explosive opener, expected to provide quick starts.
3. Suryakumar Yadav (c) – Captain and backbone of the middle order.
4. Tilak Varma – Promising left-hander who stabilizes the innings.
5. Jitesh Sharma (wk) – Likely wicketkeeper and power-hitter in the lower order.
6. Hardik Pandya – All-rounder, provides balance with bat and ball.
7. Axar Patel – Handy left-arm spinner and batting depth at No. 7.
8. Kuldeep Yadav / Varun Chakravarthy – Spin option depending on conditions.
9. Jasprit Bumrah – India’s pace spearhead.
10. Arshdeep Singh – Left-arm pacer with new-ball swing.

???? Samson missing out means India is going ahead with a clear strategy: depth in batting, sharp finishers, and bowling variety.

Pitch & Conditions – Dubai International Stadium

The Dubai pitch has traditionally been balanced but slightly favors pacers early on. With hot weather during the day and dew expected at night, the team winning the toss may prefer to bowl first.

• Pacers’ role: Bumrah and Arshdeep will look to exploit movement under lights.
• Spinners’ test: Varun or Kuldeep could be crucial in the middle overs.
• Batting challenge: Shot-making might be tricky in the first few overs but becomes easier later.

UAE – The Underdogs to Watch

While India are overwhelming favorites, UAE have nothing to lose. They could rely on their experienced players like Muhammad Waseem and young bowlers to surprise. Upsets have happened before in Asia Cups, making this contest one to watch closely.

Key Talking Point – Samson vs Jitesh

The major headline is clear:

• Sanju Samson OUT (likely)
• Jitesh Sharma IN as wicketkeeper and finisher

This selection reflects India’s focus on specialist roles rather than star names. For Samson fans, the disappointment continues, but the management’s priority is balance and form over reputation.

Final Word

As India begins its Asia Cup 2025 campaign, all eyes are on the final team sheet. If predictions hold true, Sanju Samson will miss out yet again, and Jitesh Sharma will don the gloves.

The big question: Will India’s strategy pay off, or will Samson’s absence be felt if the middle order struggles?

Either way, tonight’s clash promises high drama as India look to start their title defense with a strong performance against UAE.