Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has delivered a blunt assessment of Sanju Samson's disappointing performance in the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand, stating that the batsman's repeated failures across four matches cannot be excused by pressure.
Chahal's Stern Critique of Samson's Form
Speaking on Jio Star, Chahal emphasized that Samson, who has been playing international cricket for over a decade, should not use pressure as an excuse for his poor showing. "Sanju Samson has played for many years. He started in the IPL middle-order, then became an opener. After playing international cricket for 10-12 years, pressure shouldn't be an excuse," Chahal remarked.
The veteran spinner pointed out that Samson has had ample opportunities to prove himself in this series but has failed to capitalize. "He has had four chances in this series. I can accept failure in one or two matches, but not in three or four," Chahal stated firmly.
Samson's Struggling Numbers in New Zealand Series
Samson's performance in the four T20I matches against New Zealand has been particularly concerning for the Indian team management. The right-handed batsman has managed to score only 40 runs in the series, maintaining a dismal average of 10. This comes after the team dropped Shubman Gill and placed their faith in Samson as the primary opener.
Chahal highlighted that Samson must be aware of the competition breathing down his neck. "He knows someone like Ishan Kishan, who is the backup and is batting well at number three, is waiting. Sanju will blame himself. He had four opportunities but could not make them count," the leg-spinner added.
Ishan Kishan's Impressive Comeback Performance
While Samson has struggled, Ishan Kishan has seized his opportunity with both hands since returning to the side. The left-handed batsman has played two blistering innings in the series, accumulating 112 runs at an extraordinary strike rate of 224. This stark contrast in performance has intensified the selection dilemma for the team management.
Chahal suggested that the logical move would be to bench Samson for the final T20I. "If they feel Sanju is struggling as an opener and Ishan is doing well at number three, then the right call would be to make Sanju sit out and let Ishan Kishan take his spot as the opener and wicketkeeper in the final T20I," he recommended.
Samson's Overall T20I Career Statistics
Despite his current struggles, Samson's overall T20I career numbers present a more balanced picture. In 56 T20 International matches, the Kerala-born cricketer has scored 1,072 runs at an average of 24.36 and a strike rate of 147.86. His record includes three centuries and three half-centuries, demonstrating his capability on his day.
World Cup Considerations and Team Management's Decision
Chahal offered some consolation by noting that the T20 World Cup is still some distance away, providing time for course correction. "However, there's no need to feel too bad because the T20 World Cup is still far. There's one more match against New Zealand. It now depends on the team management's thinking," he said.
The musical chairs at the top of India's batting order continues to be a topic of intense discussion among cricket analysts and fans. With the final T20I approaching, all eyes will be on whether the team management persists with Samson or gives Kishan the opening role he has been craving.
This selection conundrum reflects the broader challenges facing Indian cricket as they balance experience with form, and established players with emerging talent in the lead-up to major international tournaments.
