Shastri Endorses Samson as T20 Opener

Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has voiced his support for Sanju Samson to remain an opening batsman in T20 internationals, partnering with Abhishek Sharma. He suggested that Shubman Gill should be positioned elsewhere in the top order.

In a conversation with the Indian media, Shastri lauded Samson as a dynamic player, indicating it would be challenging for Gill to displace him.

Shastri stated, “Samson excels in the top three, where he can secure victories. He should remain in that role, as replacing him would be difficult. Samson’s performance at the top order for India in T20s is commendable. While Gill may find a spot, Samson’s opening position should remain unchanged.”

The former head coach encouraged Samson to maintain his current approach and expressed optimism for even greater performances.

Shastri concluded, “Samson must continue his current style for India in T20s. His consistency at the top order, marked by significant scores and centuries, speaks volumes.”

Samson was given opportunities as an opener during the home series against Bangladesh the previous year, where he scored three centuries. He became the first player to achieve three T20I centuries within a year. Currently, his strike rate is 178.76, ranking second among Indian openers after Abhishek Sharma, with 522 runs in 17 innings at the top.

In contrast, Gill has accumulated 578 runs in 21 T20I innings, averaging 30.42 with a strike rate below 140, raising questions about his suitability as an opener.

Despite Samson’s stellar performance last season, which included three centuries, his long-term role as an opener remains uncertain. This discussion intensified after chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar clarified that Samson’s role as an opener during recent T20I series against England, South Africa, and Bangladesh was only temporary.