Former India opener Wasim Jaffer believes the Indian team made the right decision by selecting Sanju Samson ahead of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for the first T20I against Afghanistan in Delhi on Sunday, September 13. Jaffer acknowledged that the selection call attracted attention, particularly after Samson had previously been left out while Sooryavanshi was given an opportunity. However, Jaffer stressed that Samson now needs to repay the faith shown in him by producing consistent performances.

The wicketkeeper-batter failed to make an impact in the series opener, scoring only 10 runs from eight deliveries before being dismissed. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Jaffer backed Samson to receive an extended run but warned him about the competition for places in India’s T20I setup. “It was a good decision. There had been controversy when Vaibhav got a chance, and Sanju had to be dropped. I think Sanju should get an extended run, and Sanju also needs to score runs consistently.”

Wasim Jaffer also pointed out that Samson cannot afford another prolonged lean patch, given the number of talented batters competing for positions in the Indian team.

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“Score some runs when you play because there is a lot of pressure, with Vaibhav there. There is no dearth of batters in the Indian team.” Despite Samson’s early dismissal, India comfortably chased Afghanistan’s 157-run target in 13.4 overs, winning the opening T20I by seven wickets. Abhishek Sharma was the star of the chase, smashing 82 runs from just 32 balls to earn the Player of the Match award.

Jaffer was particularly impressed by Abhishek’s approach during the chase. He observed that the explosive left-hander appeared more mature by initially taking a few deliveries to assess the conditions instead of immediately attempting a big shot. “It looks like Abhishek Sharma is becoming more mature. He took some time, even if it was for just two or three balls.”

According to Jaffer, this small adjustment could make Abhishek even more dangerous because of his ability to accelerate rapidly once he settles at the crease. The former opener also praised his exceptional ability against spin.

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Abhishek dominated Afghanistan’s spinners, including Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi and Mujeeb Ur Rahman, while finishing with seven fours and seven sixes. Jaffer believes the youngster can produce multiple boundaries in a single over once he gets into rhythm. The second T20I of the three-match series will also be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Tuesday, September 15.