India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, faced his first assignment during the Sri Lanka tour in July-August 2024 after taking over from Rahul Dravid. The tour yielded mixed results for India, with the team achieving a clean sweep in the T20I series (3-0) but losing the ODI series (0-2). While the Suryakumar Yadav-led squad showcased dominance in the T20Is, one player, Sanju Samson, had a tough outing, scoring two consecutive ducks. Samson’s poor form led to speculation about his future in the team.
Despite his struggles, the Indian selectors retained Samson for the home T20I series against Bangladesh. He scored 29 in the first match and followed that with 10 runs, contributing to India’s 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Given his inconsistent performance, there was growing talk that Samson might be dropped for the final match in Hyderabad. However, he retained his spot in the playing XI, fully aware that it was a critical game for his future.
In an interview with journalist Vimal Kumar on his YouTube channel, Samson opened up about his experience during this challenging phase. He admitted that after his string of low scores, he was avoiding eye contact with coach Gautam Gambhir, fully conscious of the expectations placed upon him. Samson also shared the immense pressure he felt before the third T20I in Hyderabad, where he delivered a career-defining performance. He scored a brilliant century, helping India post a record total of 297/6.
ALSO READ: Prithvi Shaw Takes A Break Amid Ranji Trophy Exclusion Due To Fitness Concerns
“A player’s relationship with his coach is vital,” Sanju Samson remarked. “When your coach backs you, you want to repay that faith with performances. I really wanted to make Gambhir happy with my performance, especially after being given so many chances. When I got out early in a couple of matches, I tried avoiding eye contact with him. But after my century, seeing Gauti bhai clap for me was the best feeling.”
Reflecting on the pressure leading up to the game, Samson acknowledged that the disappointing Sri Lanka tour weighed heavily on his mind. However, he emphasized that through years of experience and personal growth, he had learned how to manage expectations and pressure by focusing on what he could control.
“There was definitely pressure in Hyderabad,” Sanju Samson admitted. “I thought a lot about what happened in Sri Lanka and what could happen in the future. But I’ve learned to deal with pressure by staying focused on the controllables and trusting my ability. I kept telling myself to stay calm and contribute to the team once I was set.”
Samson made his international debut in 2015 at the age of 20, and although he has only played 16 ODIs and 33 T20Is since then, he remains at peace with his career trajectory. Now 29 years old, Samson reflected on his journey and expressed gratitude for the opportunities he has had.
ALSO READ: Shreyas Iyer Quashes Injury Rumours Ahead Of Mumbai’s Next Ranji Game
“It’s been nearly 10 years since my debut, and I understand that everyone’s career path is different,” Sanju Samson said. “Some players get consistent chances early, while others take time. There are also those who never get a chance despite their hard work. I was lucky to make my debut for India at 20, and though it’s been an on-and-off journey, I’m grateful. I always believed I would have my moment, and finally, that day came when I played a really good innings for my country.”
This candid reflection highlighted Samson’s resilience and determination, as he continues to work toward cementing his place in the Indian cricket team.
