Star wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson came out with an emotional reaction after getting included in India's 15-member squad for T20 World Cup 2026. The announcement, made by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee on December 20, confirmed Samson as the team's primary wicketkeeping option. Shortly after the BCCI indicated that the Kerala star would likely take up the opening slot, Samson took to social media to share a heartfelt message, expressing his appreciation to the board and promising to deliver on the big stage.
Sanju Samson's first reaction to T20 World Cup selection
Samson's inclusion marks a pivotal shift in India's top-order strategy, as he is now set to partner Abhishek Sharma at the top of the order. This move comes at the expense of Shubman Gill, who was omitted from the squad entirely. For Samson, this selection feels like a hard-won victory after previously being sidelined by inconsistent selection policies that favored other players. However, his recent reliability behind the stumps and his aggressive batting have finally secured him the position of first-choice opener.
The 31-year-old’s journey back to the World Cup squad has been a test of patience, especially while watching competitors like Gill be prioritized for the role. With Gill’s recent dip in form opening the door, the Indian team management has decided to lean into Samson’s explosive scoring ability. Overwhelmed by the news, Samson’s public reaction underscored his commitment to living up to the high expectations placed upon him as the defending champions prepare for the February tournament.
Colours will not fade, definitely: Sanju Samson
Sanju Samson shared his excitement on social media shortly after the squad announcement, posting an image of himself in the national colors on his official Instagram handle. Accompanied by the emotional caption, "Colours will not fade, definitely!!!," the 31-year-old expressed his deep pride in representing the country and vowed to deliver an impactful performance during India's upcoming T20 World Cup title defense.
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His return to the starting lineup was solidified during the final match of the South Africa series, where he stepped in for the injured Shubman Gill. Samson capitalised on the opportunity immediately, striking a fluent 37 off just 22 deliveries. This brief but aggressive cameo reminded selectors of his ability to provide explosive starts, ultimately securing his position as a cornerstone of India’s top order for the mega-event in February.
India T20 World Cup squad:
Suryakumar Yadav (capt), Axar Patel (vice-capt) Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Washington Sundar, Ishan Kishan