Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has suggested that Sanju Samson lost his opening position because the team management is preparing Shubman Gill to become the next captain in shorter formats. Gill was named vice-captain of the T20I team during the Asia Cup earlier this year, indicating the management's long-term plans. His promotion meant he would feature in almost every T20I match, forcing Samson out of his preferred opening slot. Despite Gill's inconsistent form in shorter formats, he continues to be backed, while Samson was performing well before the reshuffle. Former opener Aakash Chopra also criticized the confusing team selection approach. Samson was dropped after the second T20I against Australia, where he scored only two runs batting at number three. The decision has raised questions about the team's strategy and treatment of players based on positions rather than current form.
Leadership Plans Behind Team Selection Choices
Kaif explained on his YouTube channel that if Samson were playing, there would be no confusion. However, with Gill as vice-captain playing in all matches, Samson appears sidelined. Jitesh Sharma is considered a better finisher at number five or six, which also works against Samson. Because Gill is being groomed as a future captain, Samson has lost his spot despite having an excellent record with a strike rate around 150. The team is now backing players based on specific batting positions. Chopra questioned why Samson was dropped after performing decently, including scoring a fifty against Oman when promoted up the order. The confusing approach has sparked debate.
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