Cuttack, Dec 8 (UNI) India’s T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav on Monday confirmed that Sanju Samson continues to remain a central part of India’s white-ball planning, asserting that the team’s new template demands complete flexibility from all batsmen, except the two fixed openers.
Speaking ahead of India’s upcoming T20I series against South Africa, Suryakumar dismissed speculation around Samson’s role, saying the wicketkeeper-batsman had shown maturity by adapting to different situations.
“Sanju has always been in the scheme of things. When he first came into the circuit, he batted higher up and did well. But beyond the openers, every batsman must be ready to bat anywhere from No. 3 to No. 6. Sanju has accepted that responsibility and is prepared for any role,” he said.
The captain explained that Shubman Gill had retained the opening slot because he had played in that position in the earlier Sri Lanka series. “Shubman was ahead in the queue for that role, so he kept that spot. But that doesn’t mean Sanju is out of the picture. We have given him opportunities and he remains an important part of our thinking.”
Suryakumar said India’s middle-order philosophy has evolved into a completely situational approach, where batting numbers are fluid. “On some days, you may see Tilak Varma coming in at six, while on another, as in Australia, Shivam Dube might walk in at three. It depends on the game’s demands and match-ups. This flexibility gives us balance and keeps the opposition guessing.”
He said Samson’s ability to float in the order adds value to the squad that is being shaped for the 2026 T20 World Cup. “It is always beneficial to have players who can perform multiple roles. It gives us options and makes the team stronger. These are good headaches for any captain.”
The skipper reiterated that India will not make drastic changes to a combination that has performed consistently across the last five to six series. “We have used a stable combination and it has worked. We do not intend to change too much. The focus is on maintaining the brand of cricket we have developed.”
Suryakumar also emphasised that the team’s immediate priority is to build momentum through the upcoming bilateral series before shifting attention to long-term goals. “We have ten T20Is before the World Cup. Right now, the focus is on tomorrow’s match and continuing the processes that have been successful for us.”
The captain concluded by stating that clarity in roles and acceptance of flexibility remain the strongest pillars of India’s current approach. “Everyone knows what is expected of them. Sanju is very much a part of that structure, and his adaptability is a big advantage for us.”
