Indian team's assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has backed Sanju Samson to continue as the first-choice wicketkeeper-batter in T20Is, stating that the Kerala cricketer deserves a longer run despite the emergence of young talent Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The comments came after India's T20I series defeat against Ireland, a result that has sparked debates about the team's batting lineup and selection consistency.
Samson's performance and the series defeat
Sanju Samson, who has been in and out of the Indian T20I side over the years, was given a consistent run in the recent series against Ireland. However, India lost the three-match series 2-1, with Samson scoring 89 runs in three innings at an average of 29.66 and a strike rate of 132.83. His scores included 34, 22, and 33, failing to convert starts into match-winning knocks. The series defeat has led to questions about whether the team management should look at alternatives like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who has been in scintillating form in domestic cricket and the IPL.
Ten Doeschate's backing for Samson
Ryan ten Doeschate, the Dutch-born assistant coach, addressed the media after the series and made it clear that the team management remains committed to Samson. "Sanju is a quality player, and we have seen what he can do at his best. He has been given a role, and we believe he deserves a longer run to cement his place. One series defeat doesn't change that," ten Doeschate said. He added that the team is looking at the bigger picture and wants to give players enough opportunities to perform consistently at the international level.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's rising stock
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the 22-year-old wicketkeeper-batter from Maharashtra, has been making headlines with his explosive batting in domestic T20 tournaments and the IPL. In the recently concluded IPL season, Sooryavanshi scored 412 runs in 14 matches at a strike rate of 182.30, including three half-centuries. His ability to score quickly and keep wickets has made him a strong contender for the national team. However, ten Doeschate indicated that the team is not rushing to make changes. "Vaibhav is a very exciting prospect, and we are aware of his performances. But we also have to manage the transition and ensure that players are not discarded after a few failures," he explained.
Selection philosophy and team balance
The Indian team management has often emphasized the need for stability in the T20I setup, especially with the T20 World Cup scheduled for later this year. Ten Doeschate reiterated that the team is looking to build a core group of players who can be relied upon in high-pressure games. "We have a lot of talent in India, and it's a good problem to have. But we need to be patient with our selections and give players the confidence that they won't be dropped after one bad series," he said. The defeat against Ireland, though disappointing, is seen as a learning experience for the young side.
What lies ahead for Samson and Sooryavanshi
Sanju Samson will likely get another opportunity in the upcoming T20I series against South Africa, where he will be expected to deliver match-winning performances. Meanwhile, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will continue to knock on the doors of selection with his domestic performances. The competition for spots in the Indian T20I team is fierce, and the management's decision to back Samson shows their long-term planning. For now, the message from the camp is clear: Sanju Samson remains a key part of India's plans, and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will have to wait for his chance.
