Suryakumar Yadav Discusses Shubman Gill's Selection Over Sanju Samson

In a recent discussion, India's T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav elaborated on the decision to select Shubman Gill as an opener over Sanju Samson. He highlighted the necessity for flexibility among players, particularly in the middle order. While comparing the performances of both players, Yadav noted that Gill's consistent selection as an opener contrasts with Samson's fluctuating statistics based on his batting position. The captain emphasized that adaptability is crucial for the team's success, especially among wicketkeeper-batters like Samson and Jitesh Sharma. This article delves into the strategic thinking behind team selections and the importance of versatile players in cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 8, 2025, 17:46 IST

Suryakumar Yadav on Team Selection Strategy

India's T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, has provided insights into the rationale behind selecting Shubman Gill as an opener instead of Sanju Samson. He emphasized the importance of adaptability among middle-order players in the current team structure. Suryakumar remarked, "Regarding Sanju, he initially batted higher in the order when he entered the circuit. However, apart from the openers, I believe all players need to exhibit flexibility. Sanju performed admirably when he opened, but Shubman had already established himself during the Sri Lanka series, earning that position. We have given Sanju chances, and he is willing to bat anywhere from 3 to 6, which is commendable. This adaptability is something I encourage all our batters to embrace."

Performance Comparison: Samson vs. Gill

Samson has participated in 51 T20Is, accumulating 995 runs with an average of 25.11. His statistics vary significantly depending on his batting position. When opening for India, he has scored 522 runs in 17 matches, boasting an impressive average of 39.48 and a strike rate of 182.20, including three centuries and one fifty. However, his performance has declined when batting in other positions, with 473 runs from 26 T20Is and two half-centuries. In contrast, Shubman Gill has played 33 T20Is, opening in all of them, and has scored 837 runs at an average of 29.89 and a strike rate of 140.43, with one century and three fifties. Although his average and strike rate are lower than Samson's when opening, he has benefited from consistent selection in that role.

The Importance of Flexibility in the Squad

Suryakumar further stressed that flexibility is crucial for the team, particularly among wicketkeeper-batters like Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma. He stated, "Aside from the openers, everyone must be adaptable. Both Sanju and Jitesh are integral to our plans. Having versatile players like them is advantageous. One can open, while the other can bat lower in the order. Their ability to handle various roles is a valuable asset for our team and presents a pleasant challenge for us."

Jitesh Sharma's T20I Performance

Jitesh Sharma has played 12 T20Is to date, scoring 125 runs with an average of 15.62.