The discussion around Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan continues. Samson had a difficult series against New Zealand in the recent five-match series, struggling to find form with the bat.
Former wicketkeeper batter Robin Uthappa has shown support for Samson as the T20 World Cup 2026 approaches. He believes that Samson is not out of form but is currently facing challenges, similar to India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav in 2025.
“Form is temporary, whether it’s Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, or Rohit Sharma. A player of Sanju Samson’s quality should not be considered out of form. Suryakumar Yadav was also not out of form; he just wasn’t established in one position. When Samson and Abhishek Sharma play together, they have great synergy,” he said during an interview on the CommBox TV YouTube channel.
Uthappa added that the pressure on Samson’s spot in the team affects his consistency.
“Yes, he has had opportunities but hasn’t always capitalized on them. There’s always pressure that if he doesn’t perform, someone else is waiting for his place. He hasn’t had the chance to play freely. When given that freedom, he has excelled,” he noted.
In his recent performance against New Zealand, Samson scored only 46 runs, averaging less than 10.
Uthappa Advocates for Samson
Uthappa urged the team management to support Samson in the T20 World Cup while keeping Ishan Kishan at No. 3, even if Tilak Varma gets fit.
“He has had chances, but as I mentioned regarding Surya, every World Cup involves carrying a player. It’s important to back Sanju Samson, who could win matches when in form. Continue with Ishan Kishan at No. 3. If Tilak is ready, then field your strongest team,” Uthappa suggested.
Kishan returned to the Indian team after more than two years and performed well, including a match-winning century in the final T20I.