New Delhi: India head coach Gautam Gambhir has clarified that Sanju Samson remains part of India’s plans despite being left out of the last two T20Is against England cricket team, insisting that every player must earn their place based on form.
Samson’s omission came after a disappointing run in the series, where he managed just six runs in three innings, including a duck. His exclusion allowed 15-year-old opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to make his international debut. Since both are opening options, the team management opted to retain Abhishek Sharma alongside the teenage prodigy, leaving Samson on the bench.
Addressing questions over Samson’s future, Gambhir revealed he had already held a private discussion with the wicketkeeper batter regarding his role in the team. While declining to disclose the details, he praised Samson’s contribution during India’s victorious ICC T20 World Cup campaign earlier this year and stressed that current form remains a key factor in team selection.
The India coach also made it clear that Samson has not been ruled out of the ongoing five match series and could still return if the team management believes he fits the best combination. Gambhir reiterated that international cricket is driven by performances and results, with every player required to continually justify their place in the playing eleven.
Reflecting on India’s record 125-run defeat in the third T20I, Gambhir admitted rebuilding a side often brings inconsistent performances. He said setbacks are inevitable during a transition phase and emphasised that young players need time to develop, particularly against quality opposition such as England.
Gambhir acknowledged that India’s batting struggled badly against the pace of Jofra Archer and Josh Tongue, but pointed out that the team had posted competitive totals in the earlier matches of the series. He added that adapting to conditions and reading match situations are just as important as technical ability in T20 cricket.
Despite the defeat, Gambhir reserved special praise for fast bowler Prince Yadav, whose spell of 2 for 30 in only his second T20I impressed the coaching staff. He highlighted the youngster’s ability to bowl in the Powerplay, at the death and during crucial phases of the innings, predicting a bright future for the pacer.
India will now look to keep the series alive when they face England in the fourth T20I at Bristol on Thursday.
