Why was Sanju Samson dropped from India's T20I team?

Sanju Samson was dropped due to the emergence and strong performance of Shubman Gill, who has been prioritized for the opening position.

How does Shubman Gill's rise impact Sanju Samson's place?

Gill's elevated status, compared to elite players like Kohli and Rohit, means Samson might have to bat out of his preferred opening position or be considered a finisher.

What are the expert opinions on Sanju Samson's selection dilemma?

Experts suggest that if Samson is not opening, his role as a wicketkeeper-batter is less effective, and other finishers might be preferred.

Home / Sports / Samson's T20XI Seat: Gill's Rise Fuels Debate

Samson's T20XI Seat: Gill's Rise Fuels Debate

11 Dec

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Summary

Sanju Samson was dropped for the fourth time in six T20Is.
Shaun Pollock believes Shubman Gill is now in Kohli-Rohit's league.
Experts suggest Samson bats out of position if not opening.

Samson's T20XI Seat: Gill's Rise Fuels Debate

Sanju Samson was notably absent from India's playing XI in the first T20I against South Africa in Cuttack, a recurring scenario that has sparked considerable debate. This exclusion marks the fourth time in six T20 internationals that Samson has been overlooked, with Jitesh Sharma occupying the wicketkeeper-batter role.

The selection quandary intensified following the BCCI's 'Shubman Gill plan' during the Asia Cup, which saw Samson shifted from his successful opening position to the middle order, only to be dropped for a specialist finisher. This sequence of events has reopened discussions about Samson's role and future in the T20 format.

Former South African player Shaun Pollock commented that Samson has received a "raw deal," suggesting Shubman Gill's emergence has placed him in an elite category alongside Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Pollock emphasized that stalwarts like Gill typically reclaim their established positions upon returning to the side, rather than being shifted down. He further highlighted Gill's strong Test performances in England as solidifying his top-order status, making him indispensable. The dynamic between Gill and Abhishek Sharma, noted for their good understanding, also bolsters Gill's position at the top of the order.