The path to T20 World Cup 2026 is difficult for Sanju Samson, speculations intensified due to the statement of this young opener.

By Samira Vishwas On Dec 16, 2025

Sanju Samson: The Indian team is currently playing a 5-match T20 series against South Africa. With the win in the third match played in Dharamshala, Team India has taken a lead of 2-1.

Sanju Samson: The Indian team is currently playing a 5-match T20 series against South Africa. With the win in the third match played in Dharamshala, Team India has taken a lead of 2-1. But till now Sanju Samson has not got a chance in the playing eleven in this series. Even if his peers in the team are flopping. Meanwhile, the recent statement of young explosive opener Abhishek Sharma has become a topic of discussion among the fans, which has again fueled the ongoing debate regarding Sanju Samson’s place in the next T20 World Cup 2026.

Abhishek Sharma’s statement

Recently, Abhishek Sharma gave such a statement in a conversation. Abhishek said after India’s victory in the third T20, “Let me tell you one thing clearly, trust me, these two boys will win matches for us in the World Cup and before that, in this series too!” It can be clearly understood from this statement that he has full confidence in the ability of Shubhman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav to win the match. It is believed from his statement that the path has become difficult for Sanju Samson for the T20 World Cup to be held in India next year.

Abhishek Sharma has full confidence in Shubman Gill & Suryakumar Yadav’s match-winning abilities 💪💪 pic.twitter.com/Pt6TBdQyAa
— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) December 15, 2025

Also read: Year Ender 2025: Champions Trophy win and disappointment in Test, this year has been like a roller coaster for the Indian cricket team.

Challenge for Sanju in playing XI

It remains a tough challenge for Sanju Samson to make a place in the playing XI of T20 World Cup 2026. After Rohit Sharma’s retirement, Sanju opened for some time and also performed brilliantly. But after Shubman Gill was made the vice-captain and his return, Sanju had to withdraw from the opening.

Apart from this, Sanju also gives the team the option of a strong middle order batsman and wicketkeeper. But even after getting a chance in the middle order, Sanju could not cement his place. The team management is now giving priority to Jitesh Sharma for the role of finisher, who is adept at playing big shots while batting at number 7.