Aakash Chopra On Sanju Samson’s Prospects In Indian Team

Sanju Samson in India's squad for Bangladesh T201s "I Desire to Play Tests for India," Samson as He Prepares for Ranji

Aakash Chopra highlights Abhishek Sharma’s rise as a potential mainstay, while Sanju Samson’s struggles have raised doubts about his role in India’s T20I setup.

Former Indian cricketer and analyst Aakash Chopra has observed a notable reversal in the fortunes of young opener Abhishek Sharma and wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson following India’s 4-1 T20I series victory over England. Chopra suggested that while Abhishek has emerged as a potential mainstay, Samson’s struggles have left his role uncertain in the current setup.

The series saw Abhishek Sharma dominate with 279 runs at an average of 55.80, including a blistering 135 in the final match. In stark contrast, Samson managed just 51 runs across five innings, averaging a meager 10.20. This disparity has sparked debates about India’s opening combination moving forward.

Chopra reflected on the evolving narrative around both players. “It’s Interesting because when the South Africa series ended and the preparations were on for the England series, there was a ruckus that Sanju was confirmed, that he had cemented his place as he had scored three hundreds, one against Bangladesh and two against South Africa,” Chopra noted in a YouTube discussion.

Abhishek’s explosive 47-ball century against Zimbabwe in July 2024 initially hinted at promise, but subsequent inconsistency (156 runs in 10 innings) raised doubts. However, his stellar performance against England has shifted perceptions. Chopra emphasized, “The tables have turned. Abhishek now seems indispensable, while Samson’s position is under threat,” Aakash remarked.

ALSO READ | Sanju Samson Ruled Out for 6 Weeks After Finger Fracture in England T20I | Reports

Despite Samson’s recent dip, Chopra advocated patience. “Scoring three international hundreds isn’t trivial—it showcases his caliber. Yes, the short-ball weakness has been exposed, but discarding a player of his talent prematurely would be unwise. He deserves an extended run to rediscover form,” Aakash added.

When asked about Abhishek’s ideal partner, Samson, Jaiswal, or Shubman Gill, Chopra leaned toward continuity. “He has been troubled by one thing, short ball, especially fast ones, got caught out five out of five times, and that hurts, but does it mean you should take the fly out of the milk and throw it – never. If someone has scored three hundreds in international cricket, you have to give him a little respect and a slightly longer rope” added Chopra.

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Last Updated on February 4, 2025