Sanju Samson makes bold 'Gautam Gambhir' remarks on losing opening spot to Shubman Gill
Published - 20 Dec 2025, 12:47 PM | Updated - 20 Dec 2025, 12:49 PM
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Sanju Samson made the most of the opportunity when he was finally returned to India’s playing XI in the fifth and final T20I against South Africa on Friday (December 19) in Ahmedabad. Sanju Samson was drafted into the playing XI after Shubman Gill was ruled out of the match due to a toe injury.
The right-handed batter grabbed his chance with both hands and showed how effective he can be as an opener by playing a brilliant knock of 37 runs from 22 balls against South Africa.
Sanju Samson shines on return as India’s opening debate heats up
Notably, Samson was replaced by Gill in the top order after the latter returned as India’s T20I vice-captain. That move pushed the Indian wicketkeeper-batter down the order.
Batting in the middle order did not suit him, and the 31-year-old was eventually left out of the playing XI. But at the same time, Gill has also struggled to score since his return to India’s T20I side in September and he is currently facing heat for the same.
India’s Test and ODI captain has not scored a single fifty in T20Is after coming back during the Asia Cup 2025. He played three matches against South Africa and managed scores of 4, 0, and 28, which added to the growing questions around India’s opening combination, especially when Samson continues to impress whenever he gets a chance at the top.
No Frustration, No Confusion: Sanju Samson clears air on his batting position
After India’s 30-run win in Ahmedabad, Samson has finally opened up about losing his opening spot to Gill. The Kerala star has made it clear that there is no confusion or frustration within the team. Sanju stressed that there is a positive team atmosphere, and he understands the thinking behind the team’s plans and the direction the leadership group wants to follow.
Samson also stressed that his relationship with the Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav is strong. Communication with both has been clear and open, which has helped him stay focused despite the ups and downs.
Read Also: Suryakumar Yadav finally admits his poor form but cherishes his team's domination
Speaking with Irfan Pathan and Varun Aaron on JioHotstar after the match, Sanju Samson said, “The team environment is really important because a big tournament is coming up. I have been in the system long enough to know what they were trying to do. I know what the leadership group was trying to do, as I am quite experienced. I have a good relationship with both Gautam Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav, so communication is quite open with them.”
Sanju Samson laughs off opening question ahead of New Zealand T20Is
Meanwhile, a funny moment unfolded when Pathan asked Samson if he would open for India in the upcoming New Zealand series. Caught off guard, the Kerala star laughed and dodged the question, leaving the former Indian cricketers in splits.
Samson said, “Bhaiya, aap karado open, main kya bolu yaar. Aise sawaal nahi puchne chahiye, Irfan bhai. (Please, you make me open. What should I say? You shouldn't ask these questions. (laughs).”
Notably, Sanju is all but confirmed to be picked alongside Jitesh Sharma in India’s squad for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026 in February-March at home and in Sri Lanka next year.
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