 "Sanju Samson got a chance to play after vice-captain Shubman Gill suffered an injury. Image: BCCI")
Sanju Samson once again made a strong case for himself as India’s T20 World Cup opener after an explosive knock in the fifth T20I against South Africa in Ahmedabad on Friday. Fans and experts were quick to react after the wicketkeeper-batter gave India a flying start at the top.
Opening the innings in place of the injured Shubman Gill, Samson smashed 37 off just 22 balls, striking four boundaries and two sixes. His aggressive approach helped India race ahead in the powerplay and set the tone for a big total at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
During his innings, Samson also crossed the landmark of 1000 runs in T20 internationals. The 31-year-old became the 14th Indian batter to achieve the feat, joining an elite list led by former captain Rohit Sharma. Samson reached the milestone in his 52nd T20I.
Experts back Samson to open in T20 World Cup
Social media lit up soon after Samson’s dismissal, with many fans saying that India look more dangerous at the top when he plays. Several former cricketers and analysts also backed him to continue opening in the shortest format, especially with the 2026 T20 World Cup in mind.
Quick Reads
View AllSamson, who was drafted into the playing XI after Gill picked up a toe injury, looked confident from the start. India’s strong start was carried forward by Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya, who ensured the scoring rate never dropped.