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Former India batter Robin Uthappa believes that the wicketkeeper batter Sanju Samson should continue opening for India until Tilak Varma is fully fit. Samson is currently going through a lean patch of his career, especially during the just-finished T20I series against New Zealand, where he failed five times. With Ishan Kishan enjoying a strong run of form, Samson’s place in the playing XI has come under pressure.
Uthappa compared Samson with Rohit, Virat and Gill
However, Uthappa believes Samson deserves a longer rope, much like captain Suryakumar Yadav once did. According to him, form should not be a concern when it comes to players of Samson’s quality.
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“Form will always be temporary, be it Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, or Rohit Sharma. When you are a cricketer of that calibre, I don’t think the form of Sanju Samson is an issue. Even Suryakumar Yadav wasn’t out of form. It’s just that he didn’t play in one position long enough. The kind of player Samson is, when he comes off in tandem with Abhishek Sharma, they look like a million bucks. That energy is insane.”
Uthappa on Samson's condition
Uthappa also pointed out that Samson has always played under pressure, knowing that one bad performance could cost him his place. He said the wicketkeeper-batter has rarely been allowed to play freely.
“Yes, he has got the opportunities and not performed in them. But there has also always been a sword over his head that if he doesn’t perform, there is someone waiting for his spot. There has never been a time where he just goes and bats. When they’ve given him that chance to just go and bat and do your thing, he has done well.”
Uthappa compared Samson with Suryakumar Yadav
Drawing a comparison with Suryakumar Yadav, Uthappa said Indian management should back match-winners even if they go through lean patches. He felt Surya should have been persisted with earlier and believes the same approach should be taken with Samson.
“He has got the opportunities, but as I said about Surya, in any World Cup, you will carry one player. I was saying Carry Surya if that’s required because when he comes off, he’ll win you matches like he’s winning now in the New Zealand series. The same applies for Sanju Samson. Carry him and stick with him. Keep Ishan Kishan at No.3. But if Tilak gets ready, then play your best 11,” said Uthappa.
India will start their ICC T20 World Cup campaign on February 7, when they take on the USA at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
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