T20 World Cup 2026: ‘Dropping him for whom?’ – Veteran batter concerned over India’s opener conundrum

Legendary former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has weighed in on the burning Sanju Samson vs Ishan Kishan debate ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, signalling a clear preference based on recent form.

After India’s strong 4-1 series win over New Zealand, highlighted by Ishan Kishan’s 103 and a dominant batting display in the final T20I, Gavaskar didn’t mince words about Samson’s place in the playing XI.

Gavaskar stressed that the selectors had given Samson plenty of chances, but now form and confidence have become critical factors ahead of the marquee event. On Samson’s struggles, Gavaskar continued bluntly, saying that he don’t see Kerala batter start in India’s playing XI for the opening game ahead of Ishan Kishan. 

“I think the selection committee was quite forthright, giving Sanju Samson all the opportunities. But now, with Ishan Kishan’s innings here and Tilak Varma likely to return, the batting order looks definite. It is really difficult to drop him. And dropping him for whom? Tilak Varma is a proven performer at this level. Sanju Samson is also a proven performer, but he is not in form. It has got nothing to do with his ability” he said via JioStar. 

In a tournament like the World Cup, you can’t take chances. This is the reason I think that after giving him five matches – I think his highest score is 24 – and he has got out in odd manners, he is definitely short on confidence. Unless Tilak Varma is not fit, I don’t see him (Samson) being part of the XI on February 7 (vs USA in the T20 World Cup),” added Gavaskar.

Kishan’s place in the XI has gained momentum after he amassed huge runs in the series, including a match-winning century and significant contributions throughout, while Samson failed to make big impacts despite consistent chances. 

The focus is on winning matches: Ishan Kishan opens up on his mindset 

Ishan Kishan, for scoring a record-breaking century in the final match of the series, was named player of the match. When asked about his mindset and what goes through his mind when the milestone (century) is near, he had a clear response, saying, ‘The team always comes first.’ 

“I think that’s the mindset of everyone in our team now. Even if you’re close to a milestone, it doesn’t really matter. If you start taking singles at that stage, you might feel later that you missed an opportunity to go big. So if the ball is there to hit, you have to go for it. The focus is on winning matches, not personal milestones,” he concluded. 

The Jharkhand wicketkeeper-batter was in sublime touch throughout the series, amassing 215 across four innings at a strike rate of 231.18. He emerged as the second-highest run-getter in the series, despite missing out on the Visakhapatnam encounter. The 27-year-old is expected to play a huge role in India’s title defence now.