India’s wicketkeeper-batter, Sanju Samson, shared his perspective on losing his place in India’s XI for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 after a disappointing series against New Zealand. Samson acknowledged that Ishan Kishan’s outstanding performances had elevated him in the selection race, leading to Samson realizing his chances were slim.
Reflecting on the pivotal moment in his international career, Samson noted the shift in the selectors’ mindset as Kishan excelled. Samson observed Kishan’s remarkable rise, from winning the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for Jharkhand to shining in the Indian team, which signaled a change in the pecking order.
Kishan’s impactful innings contrasted with Samson’s struggle during the series, where he failed to make a significant impact, solidifying his belief that his World Cup aspirations were dashed. Samson emphasized the importance of being in form, highlighting Kishan’s rapid ascent and his own subdued performance as decisive factors in the selection process.
The disappointment of missing out on the World Cup spot was compounded by Samson’s belief that he had secured his position in India’s T20I setup with his exceptional performances. However, the setback served as a reminder for Samson about the unpredictable nature of cricket and the need to balance preparation with mental well-being.
Samson admitted that the experience taught him a valuable lesson about the significance of maintaining a positive mental state alongside rigorous practice. He emphasized the importance of mental well-being over excessive training, realizing that happiness and mental clarity play a crucial role in performance, as demonstrated during the challenging New Zealand series.
