Sanju Samson races against time to secure spot in IND vs SA T20Is

Sanju Samson once again finds himself in a challenging position, as he has just two matches left to make a strong case for his place in India’s T20I side ahead of the IND vs SA T20I series. With limited opportunities and the impending return of Rishabh Pant, Samson’s chances are dwindling as the competition for the wicketkeeper-batter role heats up.

Samson put up a decent performance in the first T20I against Bangladesh in Gwalior, scoring 29 runs off 19 balls. However, he needs more than promising starts to stay in contention for a spot in the playing XI. The Kerala cricketer will have to step up his game in the remaining two T20Is to convince the selectors to keep him in the squad, especially with Rishabh Pant likely to return for the South Africa series.

A Tight Race Between Samson and Pant

Rishabh Pant, who is set to return after a break, has been India’s first-choice wicketkeeper and a key player in recent years. His T20I record, with 1,209 runs and 51 dismissals in 76 matches, far outweighs Samson’s 473 runs and 23 dismissals in 31 games. Pant’s consistency with both the bat and gloves gives him an edge, and the selectors have shown a clear preference for him in the past.

Samson’s Urgency to Impress

Samson, who has played as an opener and tasted success in that role, will need to make a stronger impact in the remaining games. His highest T20I score of 77 came as an opener, but the grace and style he brings to the game need to translate into more aggressive and consistent performances. Samson’s knock in Gwalior, while elegant, lacked the explosiveness India seeks from its top order.

With the IND vs SA T20I series starting on November 8, time is running out for Samson to secure his place in the squad. He will need to go all out in the next two matches to stay in the reckoning, especially with Pant poised for a return.

The next two games will be crucial for Samson, as a strong performance could keep him in the mix, but the competition is stiff, and the clock is ticking.