Post by : Meena Ariff

Sanju Samson was left out of India’s playing XI for the fourth time in their last six T20Is, with Jitesh Sharma preferred as the wicketkeeper-batter for the series opener against South Africa in Cuttack. Samson, who has been highly effective as an opener since the last T20 World Cup, was shifted to the middle order after the team management finalized Shubman Gill as India’s top-order batsman.

This move meant Samson had only five innings in the new role before being dropped, with Jitesh chosen for his ability to finish matches while also keeping wickets.

Former players and analysts have raised questions about this decision. Joy Bhattacharjya, a former cricket team director, argued that there was little logic in keeping Samson in the squad if Gill’s spot at the top was already secured. He pointed out Samson’s impressive record — including three centuries as an opener in the past year — and questioned why a player of his calibre should be forced into an unfamiliar middle-order role. Bhattacharjya suggested that if a finisher-wicketkeeper was required, India could have chosen someone like Jitesh or Rishabh Pant instead.

From a statistical standpoint, Samson has the second-highest strike rate (182.89) among India’s openers since 2023, scoring 417 runs in 13 innings over the past two years, including three centuries, highlighting his effectiveness at the top.

Former South Africa all-rounder Shaun Pollock also expressed sympathy for Samson, describing his situation as “unfortunate.” Pollock noted that with Gill now being regarded alongside elite players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, he naturally retains his preferred opening slot. Pollock emphasized Gill’s strong partnership with Abhishek Sharma, which India wants to maintain at the top, making it challenging for Samson to find a consistent role in the team.

Ultimately, Samson’s omission seems to be more a result of team strategy and player combinations than a reflection of his form or ability. Despite his consistent performances, current team dynamics leave him sidelined until further adjustments are made.

#Global News