Sanju Samson’s performance in the India versus New Zealand T20I series included scores of 10, 6, 0, 24, and 6 runs. This five-match series served as preparation for the T20 World Cup 2026.
The series allowed batters to gain confidence while testing the bowlers under pressure. Most Indian players met expectations. Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, and Rinku Singh contributed at various times, and Jasprit Bumrah displayed his bowling skills. However, Samson struggled with his batting.
Samson stepped in as India’s second opener following Shubman Gill’s exclusion. The opportunity was ideal for him to showcase his talents and secure a spot in the T20 World Cup. Instead, he underperformed. Kishan, who returned to the team after 786 days, proved his worth when Tilak Varma was absent.
Initially a backup keeper, Kishan is now a direct rival to Samson. Over five innings, the Kerala batter scored 46 runs, while Kishan impressed with a 76 off 36 balls in Raipur. The disparity between their performances became evident as Kishan recorded his second half-century in four innings, scoring 50 off 28 balls in the fifth T20I against New Zealand.
Kishan excelled during the powerplay and effectively handled spin bowlers in the middle overs. His remarkable ability to hit sixes against Ish Sodhi in the 12th over highlighted his skills. He continued to deliver strong performances.
Kishan kept up his momentum, achieving his first T20I century off just 42 balls. Although he was dropped on 90 by Glenn Phillips, he took full advantage of his good fortune, dispelling doubts about his initial place in the lineup over Samson.
Samson appeared to lack confidence for reasons not entirely clear. He retreated while attempting shots against both fast and slow balls, sticking to his original style despite repeated failures. His third consecutive outing in the fifth T20I ended without reaching double digits. This raised concerns about his future in the squad.
Samson narrowly avoided dismissal after an edge that slipped past Tim Seifert, New Zealand’s wicketkeeper, during the second over from Kyle Jamieson. Lockie Ferguson dismissed him later, with a catch taken by Bevon Jacobs at deep backward point.
Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin commented on Samson’s performance, suggesting he struggled due to the pressure of securing a position for the T20 World Cup. Yuzvendra Chahal echoed this sentiment, highlighting that Kishan handled crucial situations better than Samson under similar pressure. Now, Samson hopes for support from Suryakumar Yadav and Gautam Gambhir for India’s T20 World Cup opener against the USA on February 7.
