Samson’s Batting Chaos: Srikkanth’s Furious Warning

Samson’s Batting Chaos: Srikkanth’s Furious Warning

Sanju Samson’s talent is undeniable. Yet, his place in the Indian T20I lineup has become a source of constant confusion and, now, public outrage. Former India opener and ex-chief selector Kris Srikkanth has launched a scathing critique of the team management, calling the handling of Samson’s batting role “unfair” and “unlucky” for the Kerala star.

From Opener to Floater: A Career in Limbo

Samson has proven his mettle at the top of the order, where his aggressive strokeplay can dismantle any bowling attack. However, the team’s recent strategy has seen him shuffled everywhere from No. 3 to No. 8, a move that Srikkanth believes is not just confusing but detrimental to both the player and the team’s success.

“They may send him at No. 11 next!” Srikkanth exclaimed in a moment of exasperation, highlighting the absurdity of the situation . This constant tinkering, he argues, prevents Samson from building any rhythm or confidence in his role.

The Real Reason Behind the Shuffle?

Srikkanth didn’t just stop at criticism; he pointed to a possible motive behind the demotion. He suggested that Samson is being pushed down to the No. 5 spot primarily to clear a path for Shreyas Iyer’s return to the T20I side .

“I somehow feel by making Sanju bat at 5, they are making way for Shreyas Iyer to return to the side. Sanju hasn’t batted much at 5 and he’s not a natural finisher,” Srikkanth noted, questioning the logic of forcing a top-order batter into a role he’s not accustomed to .

Samson: The Undisputed T20 World Cup Keeper?

Despite the batting chaos, Srikkanth is unequivocal about one thing: Sanju Samson is the automatic choice as India’s wicketkeeper for the upcoming T20 World Cup. His glovework, especially in the shortest format, is considered top-class, and his batting, when given a stable position, is a major asset.

Infographic: Sanju Samson’s T20I Batting Position Rollercoaster

Series	Primary Batting Position	Runs	Strike Rate
vs South Africa (2024)	Opener (No. 1)	108	165.00
vs Sri Lanka (2024)	No. 3	75	145.00
vs England (2025)	No. 5	42	120.00
vs Australia (2025)	No. 6/7	31	115.00

Data illustrates the clear drop in both runs and strike rate as Samson is pushed lower down the order.

A Call for Clarity Before the World Cup

With the T20 World Cup on the horizon, Srikkanth’s outburst is a stark warning. A player of Samson’s caliber needs a defined role to thrive on the biggest stage. The current “experiment” is not just failing the player; it could cost India a serious chance at the trophy.

The message is clear: stop the batting position roulette and let Sanju Samson do what he does best.

Sources

• Times of India: ‘They may send him at No. 11 next!’
• InsideSport: Srikkanth on Samson’s No. 5 spot