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'He is feeling insecure' - Hanuma Vihari reflects on Sanju Samson's form after series of low scores

India’s T20I opener Sanju Samson has faced a prolonged slump since the team’s World Cup triumph in March 2026, raising concerns about his consistency and future role in the side. Over his last 11 T20 Internationals, Samson has compiled just 179 runs at an average of 16.27, with scores including multiple single-digit figures and a single half-century.

His struggles were evident at the Asian Games 2026, where he managed only 7 against Sri Lanka and 2 in the final against Pakistan, though he showed flashes of form with 117 runs across three matches against Afghanistan, including two half-centuries. Hanuma Vihari, a teammate, suggested Samson’s recent form stems from pressure, noting how emerging players like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi have intensified competition.

Samson himself has acknowledged that pressure from behind can hinder his performance, a trend Vihari linked to Samson’s struggles during Ishan Kishan’s comeback in the New Zealand series prior to the World Cup. Despite the form dip, India’s leadership has signaled plans to retain Samson and Abhishek Sharma as the opening pair for now, though Vaibhav’s opportunities will depend on further development.

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