Sanju Samson delivered a blistering powerplay performance in the fifth T20I against South Africa.
Sanju Samson delivered a blistering powerplay performance in the fifth and final T20I against South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad on Friday (December 19).
Stepping in for the injured Shubman Gill, Samson grabbed the opportunity at the top of the order. He attacked from the outset and helped India set the tone for a big score.
The wicketkeeper-batter scored 37 off 22 balls with the help of 4 fours and 2 sixes, showing the world what he can do as an opener if given a chance.
During the Asia Cup 2025 in UAE, Gill’s return to the T20I fold as vice-captain saw Samson losing his opening spot despite hitting three hundreds last year.
After receiving some chances in the middle-order, Sanju was made to warm bench in the third, fourth and fifth T20Is of the Australia tour last month, with another wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma being given the first preference because of his match finishing abilities.
The same selection policy continued in the first three T20Is against South Africa before Gill’s toe injury paved the way for Samson’s selection in the series finale.
After India's 30-run win in Ahmedabad, Sanju Samson broke his silence on losing the opening slot to Shubman Gill, saying he shares a healthy relationship with the coach and captain and understands what they are trying to do.
“The team environment is really important because a big tournament is coming up. I have been in the system long enough to know what they were trying to do. I know what the leadership group were trying to do as I am quite experienced," said Samson during a conversation with Irfan Pathan and Varun Aaron on JioHotstar.
“I have a good relationship with both Gautam Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav, so communication is quite open with them,” he added.
However, Samson was taken aback when Pathan asked him whether he would open for India in the upcoming series against New Zealand.
Samson didn't give a clear answer to the same question, and his response left Pathan and Aaron in splits.
"Bhaiya, aap karado open, main kya bolu yaar. Aise sawaal nahi puchne chahiye, Irfan bhai. (Please you make me open, what should I say? You shouldn't ask these questions. (laughs)," said Samson.