India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir recently dismissed the notion that he was behind wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson’s recent success in T20I cricket. Addressing the media, Gambhir stated that Samson’s achievements are solely his own and attributed the batter’s recent accomplishments to his dedication and talent, not any guidance or influence from him.
Despite recent speculation, Gambhir clarified that his role was only to provide Samson with consistent opportunities and to back him in a way that has allowed the batter to shine on his own.
Samson Shines as an Opener for India
Sanju Samson has found his rhythm as an opener for India, delivering standout performances following a string of steady opportunities. Supported by India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav, who committed to giving him a stable run in the Duleep Trophy, Samson has embraced his role. His early performances were promising, but his exceptional century in the third T20I against Bangladesh was a highlight.
Samson continued to excel during India’s T20I series against South Africa, scoring another century in Durban, setting records, and earning the Player of the Match award. His half-century came off just 27 balls, and he went on to achieve an impressive 47-ball century, the fastest by an Indian against South Africa.
Gambhir Praises India’s Emerging Talent
In addition to acknowledging Samson’s individual talent, Gambhir expressed his enthusiasm for the current generation of young Indian cricketers stepping up on the international stage. He emphasized that Samson’s accomplishments represent only the beginning of what these players can achieve for Indian cricket. “For me, the good sign is that some of the young players are really coming through, which is always healthy and good for Indian cricket,” Gambhir added. He has since joined the first batch of Indian players heading to Australia for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he hopes India can rebound from a recent home series setback against New Zealand.
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