Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Sanju Samson impressed everyone with a fluent knock of 37 runs off 22 balls against South Africa in the series-deciding match in Ahmedabad. His performance has now put pressure on injured Shubman Gill, whose position as vice-captain may be reconsidered for the upcoming New Zealand series and the T20 World Cup. Samson returned as an opener after Gill hurt his toe during a net session in Lucknow, making a strong case for a permanent spot at the top.
The 26-year-old Gill was appointed T20 vice-captain to groom him as a future all-format captain, replacing Suryakumar Yadav in the long term. However, his form has not matched Team India’s aggressive playing style. Gill has not scored a fifty since returning to the T20 setup, and his strike rate has dropped. Technical adjustments he made in Test cricket have also affected his T20 batting.
Samson’s career had been affected when Gill was promoted to vice-captain, as he had better T20 credentials with three hundreds in the last season but was forced to bat lower down the order in the Asia Cup. Being removed from the opening slot for no fault of his own left Samson uncomfortable and out of the playing eleven until he got a chance due to Gill’s injury.
Now, Samson’s recent performance may secure him a place as Abhishek Sharma’s opening partner. Gill’s injury, though unfortunate, could become a blessing for the team management struggling with out-of-form players like skipper Suryakumar Yadav. Samson’s ability to deliver under pressure strengthens India’s options ahead of important series.
English
