Kris Srikkanth Critiques Team Management on Samson

Introduction

The debate over Sanju Samson’s batting position has once again ignited after former India opener Kris Srikkanth came out strongly in defense of the Kerala star. Known for his explosive starts and fearless stroke play, Samson has been shuffled around the batting order despite consistent performances at the top.

Srikkanth’s recent outburst highlights what many fans and experts have been saying — India’s management is not utilizing Samson’s full potential.

Kris Srikkanth’s Explosive Comments

In a video on his YouTube channel, Kris Srikkanth didn’t hold back while criticizing the treatment of Sanju Samson.

“The guy who’s most unlucky is Sanju Samson,” said Srikkanth. “He was scoring centuries as an opener. But now they send him everywhere — from No. 3 to No. 8. If given an opportunity, they may send him at No. 11 also!”

According to Srikkanth, such constant shuffling can damage a player’s rhythm and confidence, especially one like Samson who thrives when opening the innings.

He emphasized that a player of Samson’s calibre deserves a fixed role where he can express himself freely without the uncertainty of his batting position changing every game.

Samson’s T20I Form Since 2024

Sanju Samson’s record since the 2024 T20 World Cup victory tells its own story.

Key Stats:

• Matches: 13

• Centuries: 3

• Average: 37.0

• Strike Rate: 183

• Role: Predominantly opener

• Partnership Impact: Crucial partnerships with Abhishek Sharma

His performances at the top have been instrumental in shaping India’s new aggressive T20 batting template, where the team looks to dominate from the first ball.

The Turning Point: Shubman Gill’s Return

However, things changed dramatically with Shubman Gill’s return to the T20I side during the Asia Cup.
Samson was suddenly moved down the order, batting at:

• No. 5 on three occasions

• No. 3 once

• No. 8 against Bangladesh — where he didn’t even get to face a ball

This inconsistency has sparked frustration among fans who believe Samson deserves a more stable position given his recent form and experience.

Asia Cup 2025: Samson’s Crucial Knock in the Final

Despite being pushed down the order, Samson made an important contribution in the Asia Cup final against Pakistan.
He scored 24 runs off 21 balls, helping India clinch a tense last-over victory.

While the innings might not look big on paper, it showed Samson’s adaptability and calm under pressure — traits essential for a middle-order batter.

Srikkanth acknowledged this performance, saying it was a positive sign for Samson’s confidence and his growing maturity as a finisher.

Srikkanth’s Optimism for the Future

Despite his criticism, Srikkanth remains hopeful about Samson’s future in the Indian setup.

“The only good thing is he did well at No. 5 in the Asia Cup. It’s a good sign because Sanju is now the automatic choice as the first wicketkeeper for the T20 World Cup,” he said.

According to him, Samson’s versatility could become one of India’s biggest strengths if managed correctly.

The T20 World Cup Core Team is Almost Set

Looking ahead, Srikkanth believes that the playing XI which started the first T20I against Australia in Canberra gives a clear picture of India’s likely World Cup squad.

Predicted XI (According to Srikkanth):

1. Yashasvi Jaiswal

2. Shubman Gill

3. Suryakumar Yadav (Captain)

4. Rinku Singh

5. Sanju Samson (WK)

6. Shivam Dube

7. Hardik Pandya (to replace Harshit Rana)

8. Axar Patel

9. Kuldeep Yadav

10. Arshdeep Singh

11. Jasprit Bumrah

“The team is almost set. Now it’s just about getting match practice and rhythm before the World Cup,” Srikkanth concluded.

The Broader Debate: Role Clarity in Indian Cricket

Srikkanth’s comments reflect a larger issue within Indian cricket — the lack of clarity around player roles, especially in T20s.

Several players, including Samson, have found themselves:

• Constantly shifted in batting order

• Unsure of their specific roles

• In and out of the team despite good performances

For India to succeed in global tournaments, consistency in selection and role clarity will be key.

Why Sanju Samson Deserves Stability

Here’s why experts like Srikkanth are rallying behind Sanju Samson:

✅ Proven Match-Winner: Three T20I centuries since 2024 speak volumes.
✅ Versatile Batter: Can adapt from opener to finisher role when needed.
✅ Aggressive Mindset: Fits India’s new attacking T20 philosophy.
✅ Leadership Qualities: Experience leading Rajasthan Royals in IPL.
✅ Crowd Favourite: Has strong fan backing, making him a valuable brand asset too.

What Lies Ahead for Samson

As India gears up for the 2025 T20 World Cup, all eyes will be on how the management utilizes Samson.
If he continues to perform and remains flexible, he could cement his place as India’s No. 1 wicketkeeper-batter across formats.

However, the team must provide him the consistency and confidence he deserves — not a revolving-door batting order.

Conclusion

Kris Srikkanth’s fiery remarks have reignited an important conversation in Indian cricket — how to best use talented players like Sanju Samson.

While Samson’s adaptability has kept him in the mix, true success will come only when he’s given a stable role that plays to his strengths.
As Srikkanth rightly said, “He’s done enough to be India’s first-choice keeper. Now it’s time to back him the right way.”

FAQ Section

1. What did Kris Srikkanth say about Sanju Samson?

Srikkanth criticized India’s team management for mishandling Samson’s batting order, joking that “they may send him at No. 11 next!”

2. Why is Sanju Samson’s role being debated?

Despite scoring three T20I centuries as an opener, Samson has been frequently moved to different positions, affecting his rhythm.

3. Will Sanju Samson play in the 2025 T20 World Cup?

According to Srikkanth, Samson is the automatic first-choice wicketkeeper in India’s probable World Cup XI.

4. How did Samson perform in the Asia Cup final?

He played a crucial 24-run cameo, helping India secure a thrilling last-over win against Pakistan.

5. What does Srikkanth expect from Team India now?

He believes the core team is ready — now it’s about match rhythm and fine-tuning before the World Cup.