India’s opening conundrum intensifies as Suryakumar Yadav clarifies roles of Sanju Samson and Shubman Gill ahead of South Africa T20Is

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Ahead of the T20I series against South Africa, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav has addressed one of the most debated topics in Indian cricket — who fits where in India’s batting order. With Shubman Gill returning to the squad and Sanju Samson displaying exceptional domestic form, questions around India’s opening combination have taken centre stage. Suryakumar’s clear stance, however, indicates that while both players are vital to the setup, their roles will not overlap at the top.

The comeback of Gill, alongside all-rounder Hardik Pandya, has added both stability and firepower to India’s T20I squad. Gill, who has risen swiftly into a leadership role as vice-captain, is expected to resume as an opener — a position he has made his own in recent months.

This directly impacts Samson, who had showcased impressive consistency as an opener last year while forming a strong partnership with Abhishek Sharma. His successful run, however, did not guarantee continuity, as seen during the Asia Cup where he was moved back into the middle order. With Gill’s return, that shift becomes more permanent. Suryakumar offered clarity, saying that the top order is fixed for now. He acknowledged Samson’s earlier success but reiterated Gill’s precedence.

“Other than the openers, everyone has to be flexible. Shubman had played before him in the Sri Lanka series and so he deserved to take that spot,” said Suryakumar in the pre-match presser.

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Samson’s current touch in domestic cricket only fuels the debate. His Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign — featuring scores of 51, 43, 46, and 73 — reflects a batter in prime rhythm. Many expected such performances to reopen the door for him at the top. However, Suryakumar emphasised that Samson’s value now lies in his ability to adapt in the middle order. The team management views flexibility as the fulcrum of their T20 batting blueprint. He praised Samson’s willingness to float between positions three to six, calling it a trait that strengthens India’s tactical depth.

“We gave Sanju enough opportunities — he’s ready to bat at any number. Both are in the scheme of things… one can open, the other can bat lower down. Both can do all the roles. They are a good asset and a good headache to have,” Surya added.

With Hardik’s guaranteed slot as a finisher and sixth bowler, competition for the remaining middle-order spots remains intense. Samson’s challenge is not his ability but the team’s structural requirements.

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