The return of Sanju Samson to India's T20 World Cup plans has ignited a mix of acclaim and cautious advice from former cricketers. His selection as the first-choice wicketkeeper for the T20 World Cup 2026 squad was solidified following a pivotal performance in Ahmedabad, which also coincided with the surprising exclusion of vice-captain Shubman Gill.
Srikkanth's Verdict: Brilliant But Needs Conversion
Former India selector and captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth was effusive in his praise for Samson's innings. He batted exceptionally well. It was a fantastic knock. The strokes he played were simply brilliant, Srikkanth remarked. He emphasized Samson's destructive potential, stating, When he is striking, he is striking deadly.
However, Srikkanth swiftly attached a critical warning, highlighting the fine line that has often defined Samson's international journey. The only advice I have for Sanju is, don't get out on 37. Convert that 37 into 73. If you do that, you can't be removed, he cautioned, adding a stark reality, People forget 30s and 40s.
The Decisive Knock and Gill's Unexpected Omission
Samson's 37-run cameo arrived at a crucial juncture. He had missed seven consecutive matches since the Australia tour and played just a day before the national selectors announced the World Cup squad. The timing proved to be decisive.
The selection panel sprung a major surprise by leaving out Shubman Gill, who had been serving as the team's vice-captain. Srikkanth hinted that players might have been informed of their fate beforehand. Sanju Samson got one chance and he grabbed it. I think they might have told him yesterday that you don't play. Maybe that's why he was declared unfit. They might have told him that he's not in the team, Srikkanth speculated regarding Gill's situation.
Gill, who had taken over as Abhishek Sharma's opening partner in September 2025, struggled to secure his position. In 15 innings, he failed to register a single half-century. His form dipped further during the South Africa series, managing only 32 runs across three innings before a toe injury ruled him out of the final two matches and, ultimately, World Cup contention.
An 'Intimidating' Batting Line-Up for the World Cup
Looking beyond the selection drama, Srikkanth shifted focus to India's formidable batting strength for the upcoming global tournament. He was particularly impressed with Hardik Pandya, saying, He was batting like 'Mission Impossible'. It was just outstanding to watch him bat.
He issued a clear warning to opposing teams, emphasizing the firepower within the Indian top order. If you look at the top five, if Suryakumar Yadav hits form, this batting line-up will destroy opponents, Srikkanth asserted. It is an intimidating and devastating batting line-up.
The narrative surrounding India's T20 World Cup 2026 squad is now set, with Sanju Samson's redemption arc taking center stage, underscored by expert advice to seize his long-awaited opportunity fully.
