Sanju Samson’s place in India’s playing XI for the T20 World Cup 2026 is under serious threat following a disappointing run in the five-match T20I series against New Zealand, which doubled as India’s final dress rehearsal for the marquee tournament.
The T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, begins on February 7, with the final scheduled for March 8. Samson, who was recalled to the XI for the fifth T20I against South Africa, once again failed to deliver a defining knock. His struggles continued against New Zealand, where he managed just 46 runs across five matches, adding pressure on his World Cup prospects.
Samson scored 37 in his lone appearance against South Africa, but the lack of consistency has put him firmly under the scanner. In contrast, fellow wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan seized his opportunity with a standout performance against the Black Caps, all but cementing his place in the playing XI.
Kishan produced a series to remember, including a sensational 103 off 43 balls in the final T20I. Batting at No. 3, he registered scores of 8, 76, 28 and 103 across four matches, making a compelling case for selection.
While Kishan earned widespread praise, criticism mounted on Samson for failing to capitalise on his chances. As things stand, Kishan appears to have edged ahead in the race for a spot in India’s first-choice XI.
Amid the growing scrutiny, Samson’s wife Charulatha Remesh shared a cryptic message on social media, hinting at the difficult phase the cricketer is enduring.
“When all is done & answers fade… Just bow your head and let life be! Because sometimes have to be accepted, not explained,” she wrote on her Instagram story.
Samson was originally named in India’s starting XI, with Kishan included as a backup in the 15-member T20 World Cup squad. Kishan’s opportunity arose after Tilak Varma sustained a groin injury and was ruled out of the New Zealand series.
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Kishan’s resurgence follows his impressive domestic season, where he led Jharkhand to their maiden Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title, earning his World Cup call-up on the back of strong form.
