Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has backed Sanju Samson and urged the team management to give the batsman more time despite his poor form. Samson has had a torrid time with the bat since returning to the opening slot in December 2025.
Goalkeeper-thumb got another chance during India’s second ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match against Namibia. However, he was dismissed for a brisk 22 off just eight deliveries, to deep mid-wicket.
Despite Samson’s slim patch, Ganguly said India should avoid tinkering with the playing XI ahead of their all-important clash with the Pakistan national cricket team and suggested that Samson should only be left out if Abhishek Sharma, who is currently battling a stomach infection, is declared fit.
“India’s combination is strong and well-balanced, so no major changes are needed. It all depends on Abhishek Sharma’s fitness. If Abhishek is fit, he can come in for Sanju, while the rest of the squad should remain the same,” Ganguly told India Today.
Ganguly also highlighted how Samson flourished as an opener in 2024, scoring three centuries, and emphasized that the talented batsman has the potential to justify a longer foray into the side.
“Sanju is a very good player and he deserves consistent opportunities. No player can perform under constant pressure where two failures means he is out. It is important to give him a longer run to maintain his form. After all, he scored three centuries in T20Is over a year ago. He has huge potential and I hope he gets the time he deserves,” he added.
How has Samson done since 2025?
Samson’s numbers as an opener in T20Is from 2025 are alarming. He managed just 156 runs from 12 innings at an average of 13, with a top score of 37. He survived the power play only twice in those 12 outings, underscoring the extent of his struggles at the top of the order.
With Abhishek Sharma’s fitness still under assessment, Samson is likely to get another opportunity in the highly anticipated encounter against Pakistan. It is now up to the opening batsman to make the most of the opportunity and lead India to a memorable victory with a match winning contribution.
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Issued by:
Rishabh Beniwal
Published on:
February 13, 2026