Sanju Samson’s T20I Struggles Continue as Ishan Kishan Strengthens Claim Ahead of T20 World Cup
Sanju Samson’s lack of form has emerged as a growing concern for Team India as preparations intensify for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The right-handed batter has endured a difficult run in the opening three T20Is against New Zealand, failing to make a meaningful contribution at the top of the order.
Samson, who returned as an opener after being left out earlier in the season, registered scores of 10, 6 and 0 in the three-match span. His struggles have coincided with impressive performances from Ishan Kishan, who has made the most of his opportunity while batting at No.3.
Kishan, drafted into the XI as a replacement for the injured Tilak Varma, delivered scores of 8, 76 and 28, showcasing aggressive intent and consistency. His form has significantly strengthened his case for a permanent spot in India’s playing XI.
Earlier, Samson had regained his opening role after Shubman Gill was dropped from the T20 World Cup squad following an underwhelming run. However, Samson has been unable to capitalize on the opportunity, despite strong backing earlier in the year due to his T20I centuries in 2024.
Former India captain and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has weighed in on the debate, suggesting that Kishan’s current form makes him difficult to overlook.
According to Srikkanth, Samson’s long-standing issue has been inconsistency rather than ability. He noted that while Samson has produced standout innings in the past, he has struggled to maintain momentum over extended periods.
In the third T20I, Samson was dismissed for a first-ball duck as India comfortably chased down a target of 154 with eight wickets in hand and 10 overs to spare. The defeat further intensified scrutiny around his place in the squad.
Srikkanth believes the competition for middle-order and opening slots has become extremely tight, with players like Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma making strong claims. Kishan’s added value as a wicketkeeper-batter, coupled with his recent form, could prove decisive.
Meanwhile, India captain Suryakumar Yadav showed signs of returning to peak form, scoring an unbeaten half-century in the series-clinching win. His resurgence, along with disciplined bowling from Jasprit Bumrah, has provided India with crucial positives heading into the global tournament.
With limited matches remaining before the T20 World Cup, selection decisions are expected to become increasingly ruthless, making consistency a key factor in determining the final squad.
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