T20 World Cup 2026: Sunil Gavaskar highlights technical flaw in Sanju Samson’s batting ahead of Pakistan showdown

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As India gear up for their high-voltage T20 World Cup 2026 showdown against Pakistan in Colombo on 15 February, legendary former captain Sunil Gavaskar has offered a candid assessment of Sanju Samson‘s ongoing struggles with the bat.

Following India’s commanding 93-run victory over Namibia, Gavaskar suggested that Samson is battling a technical issue that has repeatedly cost him his wicket — particularly when opening the innings against the new ball. While Samson’s cameo of 22 off just eight deliveries showcased his flair, it also highlighted the very flaw that continues to hold him back.

With Abhishek Sharma sidelined due to illness, Samson was promoted back to the opening slot alongside Ishan Kishan. The opportunity was rare — and Samson seized it with aggressive intent. He wasted no time announcing himself, launching left-arm pacer Ruben Trumpelmann for a towering six in the very first over. The fireworks continued in the next over when he dismantled Ben Shikongo, smashing two consecutive sixes over deep fine leg, followed by a stylish cover drive. In a flash, Samson had raced to 22 and looked poised for something substantial.

However, attempting to flick a slower delivery from Shikongo on the final ball of the second over, Samson was caught at deep mid-wicket. Replays revealed a familiar pattern — his back leg rooted deep inside the crease, preventing full commitment forward and leaving him slightly off balance.

It was a dismissal that mirrored his recent struggles, including a modest return of 46 runs in the five-match T20I series against New Zealand last month.

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Speaking after the match, Gavaskar pointed out that Samson tends to stay too deep in the crease while attempting the flick shot, reducing his control and balance.

“Sanju Samson has a technical problem. He goes too deep into the crease and plays that flick shot. You can only hope he times it into the gap or that it goes for six,” Gavaskar told JioHotstar.

Gavaskar acknowledged that Namibia’s bowlers were tactically sharp, setting a field designed specifically to exploit Samson’s preferred scoring areas. The batting great stressed that if Samson retains his place for the blockbuster encounter against Pakistan, patience will be key.

“Namibia were clever with their field placements. They set a field specifically to get Samson out. But it was good that he played some nice shots — that must have given him confidence. He needs to make improvements, especially when he opens against the new ball. If he plays the next match against Pakistan, he needs to spend more time at the crease,” added Gavaskar.

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