![Samson Asia Cup backups [Source: AFP Photo]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1755508808188_samsonbackups.jpg?type=mq)
Samson Asia Cup backups [Source: AFP Photo]
The India squad for the upcoming Asia Cup will be announced on Tuesday, August 19, and while almost all the places are locked in, the only discussion remaining open is about the opening slot. While Sanju Samson, and Abhishek Sharma are likely to open in the marquee event, rumours are circulating that Yashasvi Jaiswal is the third opener.
However, there is one more area where the selectors have to ponder upon, and that is a backup for Samson. He will be the first-choice keeper for India, but the side also needs a backup, someone who can slot in if Sanju Samson fails or if he gets injured. Here are the possible options India could look at for a second choice keeper.
The most likely options
Jitesh Sharma
Perhaps the most obvious choice for a spot in the Asia Cup 2025, Jitesh Sharma should be on the flight to the UAE for the marquee event. The talented batter had a phenomenal Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, and the numbers tell the story.
| Criterion | Data |
| Matches | 15 |
| Runs | 261 |
| Strike rate | 176.35 |
(Jitesh stats in IPL 2025)
261 runs scored down the order, but most importantly, he had a strike rate of 176, and was crucial in the middle order for RCB, a role he could fulfill for the Indian team as well.
Dhruv Jurel
Another player who is rated highly in the domestic and IPL circuit is Dhruv Jurel. He has played for India in Tests, and could be a brilliant backup option in T20Is for the Men in Blue. 333 runs in 14 IPL 2025 matches, and with a strike rate of 156.34, Jurel is an explosive finisher, a role India needs someone to fulfil.
The dark horses
Ishan Kishan
The batter was rated highly by the team management before his eventual exclusion due to disciplinary actions. With Sanju Samson being a right-handed batter, India could potentially look at Kishan as a left-handed choice. However, his numbers in the recent IPL season might go against him.
| Criterion | Data |
| Matches | 14 |
| Runs | 354 |
| Strike rate | 152.59 |
(Kishan in IPL 2025)
Out of the 354 runs, 100 of them came in solitary innings, and the rest 254 in the remaining 13 matches, showcasing his inconsistency. He got injured during the County hampionship stint in England, and his slim chances depends on how quickly he recovers.
KL Rahul
In any other format, KL Rahul is a first-choice player, but in T20Is, he is considered a dark horse. KL Rahul was heavily criticised for his strike rate in T20s, but he changed his style of play in the IPL 2025, and the result was to be seen by everyone: 539 runs in 13 matches, with a strike rate of 149. If India needs a reliable player, they could turn to KL Rahul.
