India’s decision to bring Sanju Samson into the playing XI in place of Rinku Singh for the crucial Super 8 encounter at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 was meant to strengthen the top order with intent and experience. Opening alongside Abhishek Sharma, Samson looked fluent from the outset and briefly justified the team management’s call.

The right-hander started positively, showing attacking intent and clean striking. He smashed two sixes and a boundary in his quickfire 24 off just 15 deliveries, giving India early momentum. His timing looked crisp, his footwork confident, and for a short period, he appeared set to convert his start into a defining innings. whatsapp image 2026 02 26 at 7 31 34 pm

However, just when it seemed he was settling in, Samson once again failed to capitalise. Attempting an unnecessary attacking shot, he mistimed his stroke and handed a straightforward dismissal to Blessing Muzarabani, who continues to impress as one of the leading wicket-takers in the tournament. The early breakthrough proved costly, as India lost their first wicket at a stage when they needed stability rather than risk.  

This dismissal adds to Samson’s growing list of missed opportunities on the global stage. In two matches so far, he has scored 28 against Namibia and 24 against Zimbabwe—starts that promised more but delivered little in impact. For a player known for his elegance and strokeplay, the inability to convert promising beginnings into match-defining contributions has become a recurring concern.

Team management had backed Samson for this must-win fixture hoping his aggressive approach would put opposition bowlers under pressure early. Instead, his dismissal handed momentum back to the opposition and put India on the back foot sooner than expected.