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Sanju Samson’s much-anticipated return to T20I cricket after India’s 2024 World Cup triumph didn’t go according to plan. Facing Sri Lanka early in 2024, the wicketkeeper-batter was dismissed for zero in both matches. The twin failures brought back old fears memories of being dropped after just a couple of games in earlier years.
Gautam Gambhir’s Unique Backing
Speaking on Ravichandran Ashwin’s podcast, Samson recalled how head coach Gautam Gambhir stepped in at his lowest point. “I was feeling down in the dressing room and Gauti bhai noticed,” Samson said. “When I told him I had two chances but failed, he just smiled and said, ‘So what? Only if you get 21 ducks will I drop you from the team.’”
Those words, Samson admitted, hit differently. “When your coach and captain speak like that, it lifts your confidence instantly. You feel the trust, and you want to repay it.”
Turning Trust Into Runs
Since his T20I debut, Samson has played 42 matches, scoring 861 runs at a strike rate of over 152, with three centuries and two fifties. His first T20I ton came against Bangladesh in Hyderabad, followed by two more against South Africa.
Samson also credited Suryakumar Yadav for a vital career boost. During the Duleep Trophy, SKY promised him a run of seven matches as opener, a chance he seized with two centuries against South Africa and England.
Uncertain IPL Future, Asia Cup Ahead
While his international stock is rising, Samson’s IPL future remains uncertain. After Rajasthan Royals’ ninth-place finish in 2025, reports suggest tensions with management and a possible trade request.
With the Asia Cup 2025 approaching, Samson will be hoping Gambhir’s “21 ducks” faith keeps him secure and that his bat continues to deliver.
