Sanju Samson's fiery performances in the Kerala Cricket League have again thrust him into the limelight for his explosive batting skills and kicked up once more the debate over his inclusion in India's Asia Cup 2025 team. Representing Kochi Blue Tigers, the wicketkeeper-batter again gave a mesmerizing performance on Tuesday when he scored 89 off just 46 balls at a strike rate of almost 200. But what captured the headlines was an endearing and thrilling sight, Samson being gifted 13 runs off a single ball. In the fifth over against Sijomon Joseph of Thrissur Titans, Samson initially hit a thrown-up ball deep extra cover for a six. The umpire, however, ruled it a no-ball, and he received a free hit. Samson didn't waste any time and hit the next ball deep mid-wicket for another sixer, towering in the air. One ball had given 13 runs, something which left the commentators and crowd aghast. Watch the video here: One ball. Two sixes. Thirteen runs. Only Sanju Samson things. 💥#KCLSeason2 #KCL2025 pic.twitter.com/AMAGRIqWyk — Kerala Cricket League (@KCL_t20) August 26, 2025 This show came after his scorching 121 from 51 balls in the previous match in the tournament, where he completed his fifty in only 16 balls. Samson's consistency, flexibility, and plain dominance have made him the league's standout player and rekindled a fresh controversy regarding India's playing XI for Asia Cup, which begins September 9. Also Read | Watch: Sanju Samson Grabs Blinder at Slip to Dismiss Sachin Baby Support and Criticism Regarding Asia Cup Pick Although Samson's physique makes a powerful case for his selection, there have been differing opinions among former players. Ajinkya Rahane was in favor of the Kerala batter on his YouTube channel and stated, "Personally, I would like to see Sanju Samson in the team because he has done really well. He is a very confident guy, a very good team man, and that is very important." Meanwhile, Aakash Chopra feels the chances are minimal. "With Shubman Gill’s return, Sanju Samson’s fate has more or less been sealed. He will not feature in the playing XI now… Jitesh Sharma will likely get the nod again," Chopra said. The Faith That Shaped Samson's Journey Samson's aggressive batting is supported by years of faith from leaders such as Suryakumar Yadav and Gautam Gambhir. Talking on the Kutti Stories with Ash podcast, Samson mentioned one incident that had altered his career path. "Surya came to me and said, ‘Chetta, there is a good opportunity coming for you… I am going to give you all seven games as an opener.’ Hearing that from the captain was a great feeling." When he found it difficult to make the most of those opportunities, Gambhir came to his rescue with motivational words. "I was a bit down in the dressing room… Gauti bhai saw me and asked what happened. I told him I didn’t capitalise on my chances. He just said, ‘So? I will remove you from the team only if you score 21 ducks." That platform set the stage for the Samson fans now witness a bold striker with the ability to turn matches around in minutes. With the Asia Cup looming, his performance might yet compel selectors to take a second look.