Indian cricketer Sanju Samson has never lacked talent or fan support but his recent poor outings have left his fans and well-wishers in a worrisome state. Known for his elegant stroke play and calm presence, the Kerala batter has often been seen as a match-winner waiting for a long, uninterrupted run. Right now, though, confidence seems harder to find than timing.
The last six months have been a testing period for Sanju Samson in India’s T20 setup. He began the season as a regular opener, with his spot appearing secure. Soon after, team combinations forced him into the middle order to make room for Shubman Gill. The shift affected his rhythm and when runs dried up, he was dropped due to poor form. Shubman Gill’s own struggles opened the door again for Sanju Samson at the top but the comeback has not gone as planned. Against New Zealand, he has managed scores of 10, 6 and 0 in the first three matches of the five-match T20I series.
Former India captain Ajinkya Rahane believes this is the moment where leadership needs to step in. According to him, India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav and head coach Gautam Gambhir have a big role to play in protecting Sanju Samson’s confidence. Ajinkya Rahane feels the management should clearly communicate trust, reassuring Samson that he will get opportunities in the remaining two matches of the series and is still in the long-term plans, including the T20 World Cup 2026. That clarity, he believes, could take away the fear of failure that often leads to rushed decisions.
Ajinkya Rahane also pointed out that batting alongside an in-form partner can quietly add pressure. With Abhishek Sharma firing at the other end, Sanju Samson may feel the need to match that aggression immediately. Rahane’s view is that Samson does not need to compete or compare himself. His strength lies in playing his own game and trusting what has worked for him in the past, especially during his successful stints with Rajasthan Royals in the IPL.
Complicating matters further is the impressive form of Ishan Kishan. Initially selected as the backup wicketkeeper, Ishan Kishan stepped in at number three due to Tilak Varma’s absence and made the most of his chances with scores of 8, 76 and 28. With competition heating up, the pressure on Sanju Samson has only increased.
Ajinkya Rahane has advised against comparisons, especially with Abhishek Sharma who recently smashed a 14-ball half-century. Instead, he feels Sanju Samson may need to slow things down, spend a few extra balls at the crease and rebuild confidence through smaller contributions. A quick-fire 25 or 30, rather than a big innings, could help him rediscover his rhythm.
At the highest level, form and confidence are closely linked. Samson’s ability has never been questioned but frequent changes in role and uncertainty around selection can affect even the most gifted players. With the fourth T20I against New Zealand scheduled for Wednesday, January 28, the spotlight is firmly on both Sanju Samson and the Indian team management.
Whether this phase becomes another missed opportunity or the start of a turnaround may depend less on technique and more on trust, patience and clear backing from those in charge.
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