Sanju Samson has come under increasing scrutiny following a disappointing run with the bat in India’s ongoing T20I assignments. While the Indian team management has not publicly questioned the wicketkeeper-batter’s place in the side, his recent performances have sparked debate among fans and former cricketers. Scores of 5 and 0 against Ireland, followed by just 1 in the opening T20I against England, have raised fresh concerns about his consistency at the international level.
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan weighed in on the discussion, explaining that Samson’s struggles are not merely a result of poor form but also stem from a technical issue that opposition bowlers have begun to exploit.
Irfan Pathan identifies technical flaw in Sanju Samson’s batting
Speaking on JioHotstar, Pathan explained that Samson becomes vulnerable when bowlers maintain a disciplined line outside the off stump. According to the former India cricketer, the wicketkeeper-batter’s bat face often remains closed during his shot-making, which creates opportunities for dismissals when he looks to attack deliveries outside off.
“You want to take the ball away from Sanju Samson. Even if you don’t take the ball away, you want to keep the line outside the off-stump because his bat face remains closed. When his bat face is closed and he tries to play on the off-side, the bat face opens up at times,” Pathan said.
His observations were backed by Samson’s recent dismissals. During the first T20I against Ireland, the right-hander attempted to drive on the up but inside-edged the ball onto his stumps. In the opening match against England, he once again went after a delivery outside the off stump, only to edge it to the fielder at third man.
Pressure mounts as India weigh their options
Samson’s recent failures have intensified discussions over India’s batting combination, with young batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi waiting for his opportunity. Although the team management has continued to back the experienced wicketkeeper, another low score could make the selection debate even more intense as the five-match T20I series progresses.
India will be hoping Samson can quickly rediscover his touch and justify the faith shown in him. A strong performance in the remaining matches against England would not only silence his critics but also strengthen his position ahead of a busy international calendar.
