Ravi Shastri Applauds Sanju Samson's Transformation in T20 World Cup 2026
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has declared that wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson has finally "come of age" during the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Shastri emphasized Samson's remarkable improvement in mental strength, consistency, and smarter shot selection, which have been pivotal in India's journey to the tournament final.
Samson's Stellar Knockouts Performance
Sanju Samson has emerged as one of India's standout performers in the knockout stages of the T20 World Cup 2026. His explosive 42-ball 89 against England in the semifinal propelled India to a thrilling seven-run victory. Earlier in the tournament, Samson's unbeaten 97 off 50 balls against the West Indies laid a solid foundation for India's crucial win in a virtual quarterfinal match.
Reflecting on Samson's resurgence, Shastri noted that the talented batter has finally found the perfect balance between his natural flair and the responsibility required at the international level. "I think he's finally realising and coming to terms with the fact that he needs to be more consistent. He's got to be wiser with his shot selection and he's got to back his strengths," Shastri stated on The ICC Review.
Mental Toughness and Skill Recognition
Shastri highlighted that while Samson's skill set has never been in doubt, his previous lapses in concentration had hindered his consistency. "The thing with Sanju is he's got every shot in the book, but lapses in concentration. I think he's toughened up mentally and there's never been anyone who's doubted his skill or talent ever since he made the side," Shastri explained.
He added, "What people have been disappointed about is that the run of consistency that should have been there by now wasn't there. But he's come of age now." Samson's heroics have been instrumental in guiding India into the final, where they will face New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.
Shastri's Advice on Abhishek Sharma
Despite Samson's success, his opening partner Abhishek Sharma has struggled throughout the tournament, scoring only 89 runs in seven innings. However, Shastri urged the team management to maintain faith in the young left-hander rather than making last-minute changes before the final.
"I think they've just got to stick with him now," Shastri advised. "Don't make any changes as the side's having a good run. Just tell him, 'believe in your ability, believe in your strengths and back them. Don't go into a shell where you're tentative or timid.'"
According to Shastri, the high-pressure environment of the final could bring out the best in Abhishek Sharma. "We back you, you back your strengths and go out there and play. The last game might be the best game for you," he added, expressing confidence in the player's potential to shine on the biggest stage.
