Sanju Samson’s talent has never been questioned but T20 cricket rarely waits for long. As India continue their dominant run against New Zealand, the spotlight has shifted to Samson’s struggles at the top of the order and how long the team can afford to be patient.
Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh feels that Samson desperately needs runs, not only to lift his own confidence but also to reassure the team. According to Harbhajan, opening the batting in T20s is a role that demands immediate returns and if Samson’s lean patch continues, the management may soon be forced to look elsewhere. He hinted that Ishan Kishan, who appears to be in dangerous form, could be the obvious replacement if changes are made.
Sanju Samson walked into the third T20I against New Zealand after quiet outings in Nagpur and Raipur, hoping to make the most of friendly batting conditions. However, the story remained unchanged. He failed to convert his start and was dismissed by Matt Henry, once again leaving India without meaningful runs from one end.
Harbhajan Singh believes Sanju Samson still deserves another opportunity or two but he also acknowledged the harsh reality of international cricket. In a format where momentum matters, consistent failures often lead to tough calls, no matter how much potential a player has. He added that competition within the squad is strong and performances will ultimately dictate selections.
Sanju Samson was reinstated as opener after Shubman Gill was dropped following India’s home series win against South Africa in December. Since then, though, he has managed only 16 runs across three matches in the New Zealand series, averaging just 5.33, which has increased scrutiny on his role.
Meanwhile, others have made the most of their chances. Abhishek Sharma produced a stunning 14-ball fifty, while captain Suryakumar Yadav continued his sensational form with another attacking half-century. India’s eight-wicket win in the third T20I sealed the five-match series 3-0 in Guwahati on Sunday, January 25.
Chasing 154, India wrapped up the game in just 10 overs. Abhishek Sharma remained unbeaten on 68 off 20 balls, while Suryakumar Yadav smashed 57 not out from 26 deliveries. As India surge ahead, the question remains whether Sanju Samson can rediscover his touch before the door starts to close.
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