Sanju Samson’s lean patch at the top of the order has been a talking point in the ongoing India vs New Zealand T20I series, but the Indian team management remains firmly behind the wicketkeeper-batter ahead of the T20 World Cup. On Tuesday, India men’s bowling coach Morne Morkel offered a timely vote of confidence, insisting that Samson is just one innings away from rediscovering his best form.
The Kerala batter has endured a tough start to the series, scoring only 16 runs across the first three T20Is, with a highest score of 10. In contrast, India’s other top-order batters, including Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and captain Suryakumar Yadav, have dominated New Zealand’s bowling attack. Despite the numbers, Morkel stressed that Samson’s preparation and mindset remain encouraging.
“Sanju is one knock away from getting that confidence and rhythm back. For us, building towards the World Cup, it’s important that players peak at the right time. He’s training really well and striking the ball cleanly,” Morne Morkel told reporters ahead of the fourth T20I.
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That belief was reflected in Samson’s work ethic during an optional training session at the ACA-VDCA Stadium. The 29-year-old spent more than 30 minutes in the nets, facing a variety of bowling options, including Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy, Abhishek Sharma, and side-arm specialist Raghu. After a scratchy start, Samson found his timing, playing fluent strokes and sending the ball to all parts of the ground.
Samson was later seen in an extended discussion with head coach Gautam Gambhir and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, underlining the support he continues to receive from the leadership group. Morkel made it clear that individual form takes a back seat when the team is winning.
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“We’re 3-0 up in the series and playing some very good cricket. That’s what matters most. With a couple of games left before the World Cup, I have no doubt Sanju will come good,” Morne Morkel added.
