Suryakumar Yadav Highlights Sanju Samson's Impact Ahead of T20 World Cup Final

As India gears up for the T20 World Cup 2026 final against New Zealand, captain Suryakumar Yadav emphasizes the significant impact of Sanju Samson's inclusion in the playing XI. With impressive performances throughout the tournament, Samson's contributions have been pivotal in India's success. Yadav discusses the team's strategy for the final and their aim to defend the title at home, making history as the first team to win a T20 World Cup in front of a home crowd. Discover more about the squads and the players' performances leading up to this crucial match.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 7, 2026, 23:57 IST

Suryakumar Yadav Commends Sanju Samson's Role

The captain of the Indian cricket team, Suryakumar Yadav, expressed his appreciation for Sanju Samson's inclusion in the playing XI, emphasizing that it was a pivotal decision that significantly influenced the team's performance.

During a pre-match press conference for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 final against New Zealand, Suryakumar underscored the vital contributions made by Samson.

"In my opinion, bringing Sanju into the team was essential. We observed the successful combinations during our last bilateral series, where players like Abhishek, Sanju, and Ishan were batting in the top three. The impact was evident, and once we included him, the game's momentum shifted entirely," Suryakumar stated.

Samson's Stellar Performance in the T20 World Cup

Sanju Samson has showcased remarkable form throughout the T20 World Cup. In four matches, he has accumulated 232 runs, boasting an impressive average of 77.33 and a striking strike rate of 201.73.

The right-handed batsman received consecutive Player of the Match accolades in India's last two outings, including the semifinal and the final Super 8s match.

Samson delivered a standout performance with an unbeaten 97 off 50 balls in a crucial Super 8s victory against the West Indies, followed by a swift 89 runs from just 42 balls in the knockout semifinal, once again spearheading India's efforts.

Recognition of Samson's Dedication

Suryakumar further acknowledged Samson's commitment and hard work during his time out of the playing XI.

"I believe that was a positive decision for him. I noticed his immense effort. When a player is not selected, their actions off the field are just as important. He was doing everything possible to prepare for when he would play. The results of his hard work are evident in his last few innings," Suryakumar remarked.

India's Strategy for the Final

When asked about the target India aims to set after scoring over 250 runs in the second semifinal, Suryakumar replied, "We will focus on batting well. If we can score 200, 225, or even 250 runs, that would be advantageous for our team. However, we don't enter the match with a fixed target. The conditions of the pitch will dictate our approach, and we will adapt accordingly to defend whatever total we achieve."

Team India is determined to defend its title on home soil and aims to become the first team to win a T20 World Cup in front of a home crowd.

Squads for the Final

New Zealand Squad: Tim Seifert (wicketkeeper), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner (captain), Cole McConchie, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Devon Conway, Kyle Jamieson, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy.

India Squad: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav.