Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has called for patience with Sanju Samson, saying the wicketkeeper-batter deserves an extended run despite his ongoing struggles at the top of the order.
Samson’s return to the opening slot in December 2025 has not gone according to plan. In India’s second outing of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup against Namibia, he played a brisk cameo of 22 off eight balls but failed to convert the start, continuing a lean stretch with the bat.
Ganguly Urges Stability
Speaking ahead of India’s marquee clash against the Pakistan national cricket team, Ganguly advised the management against unnecessary tinkering with the playing XI.
“India’s combination is strong and well-balanced. There is no need for major changes. It all depends on Abhishek Sharma’s fitness. If Abhishek is fit, he can come in for Sanju. Otherwise, the rest of the team should remain unchanged,” Ganguly said.
The former skipper emphasised that constant pressure can hinder performance, arguing that players need security to deliver consistently.
“No one can perform if they feel two failures will cost them their place. Sanju is a very good player and should be given a longer rope. Just over a year ago, he scored three T20I hundreds. That shows the kind of ability he possesses,” he added.
Struggles Since 2025
The numbers reflect Samson’s dip in form. Since the start of 2025, he has scored 156 runs from 12 T20I innings as an opener at an average of 13, with a highest score of 37. He has survived the powerplay only twice in that span — a concern for a player tasked with providing early momentum.
With Abhishek’s fitness still under review, Samson is likely to get another opportunity in the high-pressure India–Pakistan encounter. The stage is set for him to respond to the backing from one of Indian cricket’s most influential voices.
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