Gambhir’s backing of Samson tests whether sustained selection can still pay off in India’s T20 setup
Shane Watson criticised India’s frequent squad changes and praised Gautam Gambhir’s decision to persist with Sanju Samson after the batter’s 82 in Ranchi.
Sanju Samson scored 82 off 41 balls in the second T20I against West Indies in Ranchi, ending a run of four single-figure scores. The innings equalled Virat Kohli’s record for the fastest fifty by an Indian against West Indies and helped India reach 249 for five. Shane Watson questioned the constant changes in India’s batting order under Gautam Gambhir and said stability is essential for players to build rhythm.
Watson noted that Samson received consistent backing during the T20 World Cup and delivered in the knockout stages. He argued that frequent rotation prevents players from settling into roles. Samson has now played 113 T20Is and remains the preferred wicketkeeper-batter ahead of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for the series.
India’s next assignment is a five-match T20I series in New Zealand beginning October 22. The tour also includes five ODIs and two Tests.
Filed under Sanju SamsonShane WatsonGautam GambhirVaibhav SooryavanshiIndiaWest Indies
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- DevelopingOct 9, 2026 · CricHubb Desk