Is Sanju Samson running out of chances ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026? India captain Suryakumar Yadav has strongly hinted at India’s preferred Playing XI, and the signs are not encouraging for Samson.
Instead, Suryakumar has openly backed Ishan Kishan as India’s first-choice opener, citing his red-hot form and confidence going into the tournament.
Match Details
| Match | India vs USA |
|---|---|
| Date | February 7, 2026 |
| Venue | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai |
| Time | 7:00 PM IST |
| Captain | Suryakumar Yadav |
The defending champions will look to start their title defense on a winning note.
Suryakumar Yadav Chooses Form Over Combination
Speaking ahead of the World Cup, Suryakumar made it clear that India will not select players just to maintain a left-right batting combination.
According to the Indian skipper, merit and match readiness matter more than batting orientation.
“Left-right combination is overrated. You have practiced for all situations. Your job is to do the best for the team,” Suryakumar said.
This statement all but closed the door on Sanju Samson’s hopes of opening the innings at the global event.
Why Ishan Kishan Is India’s Preferred Opener
Suryakumar Yadav had high praise for Ishan Kishan’s recent performances, both at the international and domestic levels.
“Ishan Kishan has been tremendous. The way he played domestic cricket and carried that confidence into internationals has been brilliant. He’ll do well in the tournament,” he added.
Kishan’s aggressive intent and ability to dominate powerplays have clearly impressed the Indian think tank.
Ishan Kishan vs Sanju Samson – Recent T20I Form
| Player | Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ishan Kishan | 4 | 215 | 53.75 | 231.18 | 103 |
| Sanju Samson | 5 | 46 | 9.20 | — | — |
Ishan Kishan’s stunning maiden T20I century came in the final match of the New Zealand series, where he smashed 103 off just 43 balls.
He followed it up with a rapid 20-ball 53 against South Africa in a T20 World Cup warm-up match, further strengthening his case.
Sanju Samson’s Missed Opportunity
For Sanju Samson, the New Zealand series was a big chance. He was promoted as opener, replacing a struggling Shubman Gill, but failed to make an impact.
Low scores and lack of momentum hurt his case badly at a time when competition for places is intense.
India’s Momentum Heading into T20 World Cup 2026
India enter the tournament in excellent form.
Recent Achievements
- T20I series wins in Australia
- Home series wins vs South Africa and New Zealand
- Unbeaten champions of the 2025 Men’s T20 Asia Cup (UAE)
- No T20I series loss since August 2023
This consistent success has allowed India to back in-form players without hesitation.
India’s Opening Match at T20 World Cup 2026
The tournament begins on February 7, with a blockbuster triple-header. India will play the third match of the day.
Suryakumar Yadav’s comments make one thing clear—form, confidence, and impact matter more than reputation. With Ishan Kishan peaking at the right time, Sanju Samson finds himself on the outside looking in.
Unless there is a dramatic turnaround, India’s T20 World Cup 2026 Playing XI appears to be taking shape—and Kishan has firmly grabbed the opening slot.
