If you’re not going to bat Sanju Samson up the order..: Sanju Samson looks destined to be dropped from T20 World Cup squad

If you’re not going to bat Sanju Samson up the order..: Sanju Samson looks destined to be dropped from T20 World Cup squad

Sanju Samson’s Struggles Ahead of ICC T20 World Cup 2026

With just two months remaining before the highly anticipated ICC T20 World Cup 2026, Indian cricketer Sanju Samson finds himself in a precarious position as he struggles to secure a spot in India’s T20I playing eleven. Once considered a certain pick in the team, Samson’s situation has taken a turn since the return of Shubman Gill to the T20I squad during this year’s Asia Cup.

Before Gill’s comeback, Sanju Samson was a regular opener for India in the shortest format of the game and seemed to have solidified his place in the team. However, with the reshuffling to accommodate Gill, Samson has been pushed to the middle-order and is now finding it difficult to even make it to the playing eleven.

A Shift in Fortunes

Sanju Samson rose to prominence in India’s T20 setup following Rohit Sharma’s retirement in 2024. He impressed with three centuries in the latter half of the same year, showcasing his talent with the bat. Over the past two years, Samson has accumulated 417 runs in 13 innings, establishing himself as a key player in the team.

However, recent times have not been kind to the Kerala star as he continues to struggle to regain his spot in the playing eleven. In the recent T20I against South Africa, Samson was once again left out of the team, making it the fourth time in the last six matches since the Asia Cup that he has been sidelined.

Expert Opinions

Former Kolkata Knight Riders team director Joy Bhattacharjya has raised concerns about Sanju Samson’s role in the squad, suggesting that there is no point in retaining him if he is not utilized as an opener. Bhattacharjya proposed selecting Rishabh Pant as a backup wicketkeeper instead, highlighting Pant’s experience in batting in the middle-order.

Adding to the discussion, former South Africa captain Shaun Pollock emphasized that Shubman Gill has elevated himself to the same league as ‘Virat Kohli-Rohit Sharma’, making him a preferred choice over Samson. Pollock noted the challenges Samson faces in reclaiming his spot in the team amidst strong competition.

The Road Ahead

As the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 approaches, Sanju Samson faces an uphill battle to regain his position in India’s T20I squad. With stiff competition and a reshaped batting order, Samson will need to showcase his skills and adaptability to secure a spot in the playing eleven.

It remains to be seen how Samson navigates through this challenging phase in his career and whether he can make a strong case for his inclusion in the team as India gears up for the prestigious T20 World Cup.

Current Form and Performance

One of the key factors impacting Sanju Samson’s struggles is his recent form and performance on the field. While he has shown glimpses of his talent in the past, his numbers in the last few matches have not been impressive. Samson’s average in T20Is has dipped, and he has been unable to convert starts into big scores consistently. This inconsistency has raised doubts about his ability to deliver under pressure and secure his place in the playing eleven.

Mental Resilience and Determination

In the face of adversity, mental resilience and determination play a crucial role in an athlete’s ability to bounce back. Sanju Samson will need to stay focused, work on his game, and display a positive mindset to overcome the challenges he currently faces. Building mental strength and staying motivated during tough times can be the difference between success and failure in elite sports.

Training and Preparation

To enhance his chances of making a successful comeback, Samson must focus on his training and preparation leading up to the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Working closely with coaches, analyzing his game, and addressing any technical deficiencies will be vital for him to showcase his best performance on the field. Additionally, dedicating extra hours to practice and honing specific skills can give Samson the edge he needs to impress the selectors.

Opportunities for Redemption

Despite the challenges he currently faces, Sanju Samson still has opportunities to redeem himself and prove his worth to the team. The upcoming domestic T20 tournaments and practice matches leading up to the ICC T20 World Cup will serve as crucial platforms for Samson to showcase his abilities and stake his claim for a spot in the playing eleven. Putting in consistent performances in these matches can significantly boost his chances of making a comeback.

Support from Teammates and Coaching Staff

During times of struggle, the support of teammates and coaching staff can play a pivotal role in an athlete’s journey. Sanju Samson will need the backing of his fellow players and mentors to help him navigate through this challenging phase. Constructive feedback, encouragement, and guidance from experienced players and coaches can aid Samson in regaining his confidence and form as he aims to secure his place in the Indian T20I squad.

Conclusion

As Sanju Samson faces uncertainties ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, the road to redemption is paved with obstacles that he must overcome to solidify his position in the Indian T20I team. With determination, hard work, and the right support system, Samson has the opportunity to turn the tide and prove his critics wrong. The upcoming months will be crucial for him as he strives to make a strong comeback and contribute significantly to India’s campaign in the prestigious tournament.

Latest News