India begins a five-match T20 International series against the West Indies with the first match at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Tuesday, October 6. The team arrives fresh from winning gold at the Asian Games 2026. A key selection question for the hosts centres on who will partner Abhishek Sharma at the top of the order, with Sanju Samson and Vaibhav Suryavanshi competing for the spot.
Hanuma Vihari has offered a direct assessment of Samson’s position ahead of the series. The veteran batter emphasised that this represents a critical juncture for Samson, who struggled during India’s Asian Games campaign. In two matches at the Asian Games, Samson managed only nine runs, a performance that has raised questions about his form and selection for the upcoming fixtures.
“A big series for Sanju Samson. Every series he plays now is a big series for him because he did not score runs in the Asian Games. Vaibhav and Abhishek played good knocks,” Vihari said.
“Ishan Kishan played well. Shreyas was decent. Tilak was excellent in the final, and even Dube played a good knock,” he added.
Samson’s Asian Games performance and selection pressure
Vihari’s remarks highlight the contrast between Samson’s Asian Games performance and the strong showings from other members of India’s squad. While Samson struggled, several teammates delivered significant contributions during the tournament. This disparity has intensified the competition for the opening partnership slot alongside Abhishek Sharma.
Vihari also addressed the broader squad composition and the need for regular opportunities for emerging talent. He emphasised that Vaibhav Suryavanshi should receive consistent game time during the upcoming fixtures. With India scheduled to play ten T20 Internationals against the West Indies and New Zealand in a compressed timeframe, Vihari suggested a rotation approach could balance the demands and provide valuable experience to younger players.
“I think Suryavanshi should get a chance. You have to find a way. Maybe by rotation. Give Abhishek 8 or 9 games out of the next ten,” Vihari said.
“Up to you. But Suryavanshi and Samson should play in rotation. Let’s wait and watch what Gambhir does,” he added.
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