Sanju Samson was one of the main reasons behind India’s success in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. After warming the bench, the wicket-keeper batter was recalled to the playing XI after Abhishek Sharma’s failures as an opener. Although Abhishek retained his place, Samson was added to the team to add more firepower and stability. He didn’t disappoint and hit three consecutive half-centuries in three must-win games.
When India were on the back foot against the West Indies in the Super 8 stage, his match-winning innings took the team to the semi-final. Samson’s magnificent batting against the Harry Brook-led team ensured India’s place in the final. In the summit clash against New Zealand, he contribution once again confirmed India’s win at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
Speaking to Sportstar, Indian batting coach Sitanshu Kotak opened up on Sanju’s performance. “Sanju was not playing, but he was confident. I spoke to him as there were chances of injuries or poor form.”
Samson trusted his own abilities. “I am always prepared, and whenever you tell me to perform, I will do it,” Kotak added.
He amassed an unbeaten 97, 89 and 89 in the last three contests. “Sanju didn’t go for his hundred in the semi-final against England. He kept the team’s interest over individual milestones,” he revealed.
When Samson was told to go for a hundred by the batting coach, the batter said, “I told Sanju, ‘Ek toh hundred karna hai. He replied: On one hand, you say that don’t go for personal milestones, and on the other, you are asking me to score a century.”