As Team India gears up for its T20 World Cup title defence, confidence within the camp remains high following a dominant run in bilateral series. The side has looked settled in most departments, with strong performances across batting, bowling and fielding building momentum at the perfect time.
However, one area continues to draw attention ahead of the global tournament. Sanju Samson’s recent struggles with the bat have sparked intense debate, especially with competition for spots heating up and alternatives delivering impactful performances.
With the countdown to the T20 World Cup underway, the Indian team management has finally addressed the growing discussion around Samson’s form, offering clarity on where their priorities truly lie.
Team India cruising ahead of T20 World Cup build-up
India enter the final phase of preparation for the T20 World Cup with remarkable consistency behind them. The side has remained unbeaten across their last nine bilateral T20I series, underlining stability and confidence within the group.
Led by Suryakumar Yadav, the team has displayed fearless intent, flexible combinations and a strong understanding of modern T20 demands.
This impressive run has placed India among the tournament favourites, increasing expectations as well as scrutiny over individual performances.
Sanju Samson form becomes talking point
Despite the team’s overall success, Sanju Samson’s returns in the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand have raised concerns.
The right-hander has managed scores of 10, 6 and 0 so far, aggregating only 16 runs across three matches.
His golden duck in the third T20I further intensified discussion, as pressure continues to mount with limited matches remaining before the World Cup.
Dismissal highlights recent struggles
In the Guwahati encounter, Samson was undone by pace, falling to Matt Henry without opening his account.
The dismissal reflected a broader pattern of difficulty in converting starts and settling at the crease.
For a player of his experience, the timing of this dip has become a key concern for selectors and fans alike.
Morne Morkel plays down concerns
India bowling coach Morne Morkel addressed the growing chatter ahead of the fourth T20I against New Zealand.
He expressed confidence in Samson’s ability to bounce back, emphasizing that poor form is often temporary in nature.
Morkel indicated that the coaching group remains calm and supportive, viewing the situation as part of a larger preparation process.
One knock away from revival
According to Morkel, Samson is just one impactful innings away from rediscovering his rhythm.
He highlighted the batter’s commitment in training sessions, noting that Samson has been striking the ball cleanly during practice.
The coaching staff believes performance will follow preparation, especially with important matches still to come.
Focus remains on peak performance timing
The team management has stressed the importance of players peaking at the right moment.
Rather than early brilliance, the emphasis is on ensuring form aligns with the demands of the World Cup.
This approach reflects India’s long-term planning rather than reactive decision-making.
Team success takes priority
Morkel made it clear that the primary focus remains collective success rather than individual numbers.
With India holding a 3-0 lead in the five-match series, confidence within the group remains intact.
The management views winning momentum as a more valuable indicator than short-term batting returns.
Ishan Kishan seizes opportunity
While Samson has struggled, Ishan Kishan has taken full advantage of his opportunity in the playing XI.
Drafted in as a replacement following Tilak Varma’s injury, Kishan has delivered impactful performances.
Scores of 8, 76 and 28 have strengthened his case and added healthy competition within the squad.
Debate intensifies over opening slot
Kishan’s form has led to growing calls for him to be promoted as a permanent opener.
With limited matches remaining, the pressure on Samson has increased significantly.
The selection dilemma now centers on balancing experience with current momentum.
Context behind Samson opening role
This is the first time in over a year that Samson has been entrusted with the opening role in T20Is.
His previous run as opener came during the five-match series against England in early 2025.
Since then, team combinations have evolved due to leadership changes and tactical experimentation.
Gill’s entry changed team dynamics
During the Asia Cup last year, Shubman Gill was introduced into the T20 setup as vice-captain.
His inclusion resulted in Samson losing his opening position despite strong performances earlier.
The move was part of a broader leadership and balance strategy.
Samson’s standout year still remembered
In 2024, Samson enjoyed one of his best phases in international cricket.
He struck three T20I centuries, including one against Bangladesh and two against South Africa.
Those performances remain strong reminders of his potential at the highest level.
Gill’s struggles reopen selection debate
Shubman Gill’s form in T20Is during 2025 failed to match expectations.
Across 15 matches, he did not manage a single half-century.
This slump ultimately resulted in his omission from the New Zealand series and World Cup plans.
Expectations from Samson-Abhishek pairing
Samson was expected to form an aggressive opening combination with Abhishek Sharma.
The pairing promised powerplay dominance and attacking intent.
However, early results have not matched the initial expectations.
Pressure grows as World Cup nears
With the World Cup just weeks away, every innings now carries added significance.
Selectors are monitoring consistency, adaptability and temperament under pressure.
The remaining matches offer limited but crucial opportunities to make a strong impression.
India seal series early against New Zealand
India’s 3-0 lead has already secured the series against the Black Caps.
The dominant margin reflects depth and balance across the squad.
It also provides flexibility for experimentation in the remaining fixtures.
Fourth T20I becomes important audition
The fourth T20I in Vizag presents another chance for players to stake their claim.
For Samson, the match holds added significance amid growing competition.
Strong performances could quickly shift the narrative in his favour.
Team management maintains calm approach
The coaching group continues to back stability and confidence.
Rather than reacting to short-term fluctuations, the focus remains on long-term tournament success.
This measured mindset has been central to India’s recent consistency.
Balancing form and faith ahead of World Cup
Selection decisions often walk a fine line between current form and proven ability.
Samson’s situation highlights the complexity of modern team management.
Finding the right balance could define India’s campaign.
Conclusion
As Team India marches confidently toward the T20 World Cup, Sanju Samson’s form remains one of the few unresolved questions.
Morne Morkel’s comments reflect trust, patience and belief in the batter’s ability to deliver when it matters most.
With winning momentum on their side and competition pushing standards higher, India’s final choices will shape their title defence in the weeks ahead.
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