Sanju Samson Dropped for 2nd T20I Against England, Former Cricketers Question India’s Selection Call
India’s decision to leave Sanju Samson out of the playing XI for the second T20 International against England has triggered widespread debate among former cricketers and fans. The wicketkeeper-batter, who played a key role in India’s successful T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, was replaced by teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for the match at Old Trafford, Manchester.
While Sooryavanshi’s international debut made history, Samson’s omission became one of the biggest talking points surrounding the match.
Sanjay Manjrekar Questions India’s Decision
Former India batter and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar openly questioned the team management’s decision to bench Samson, suggesting the move was difficult to understand unless it was due to an injury.
Reacting on social media, Manjrekar said he hoped Samson’s absence was fitness-related rather than a tactical decision. He also argued that India could have accommodated both players by allowing Sooryavanshi to open the innings while moving Samson to the No. 3 position.
His comments echoed the concerns of several cricket experts, who felt Samson had earned more backing after his performances in recent ICC tournaments.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Makes Historic Debut
Despite the controversy, the match marked a milestone for Indian cricket as 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi became the youngest player to represent India’s men’s team in international cricket.
The teenage opener played with confidence and struck two sixes before being dismissed for 14 runs from 10 balls. His fearless approach impressed fans, even though his innings was short-lived.
India’s Batting Strategy Under the Spotlight
India posted 190/7 after useful contributions from Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma. However, the total was not enough as England chased down the target with four wickets in hand.
The defeat intensified criticism of India’s team selection and batting combination, with many questioning whether the balance of the side had been compromised.
Irfan Pathan Calls for Better Team Balance
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes the current T20 squad has become heavily loaded with left-handed batters. He pointed out that the presence of players such as Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma has created a top order that could be easier for opposition bowlers to plan against.
Pathan suggested the selectors consider bringing right-handed batter Rajat Patidar into the T20 setup. He highlighted Patidar’s impressive Indian Premier League campaign, where the batter scored consistently at a high strike rate, making him a strong candidate ahead of future international assignments.
According to Pathan, India still has enough time before the next T20 World Cup to test different combinations and strengthen the batting lineup.
Selection Decisions Face Fresh Scrutiny
England’s four-wicket victory has increased the focus on India’s selection strategy ahead of the remaining matches in the series. The team management now faces the challenge of balancing opportunities for emerging talents like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi while ensuring experienced performers such as Sanju Samson remain part of the plans.
With England leading the five-match series 1-0, all eyes will be on India’s playing XI when the teams meet again for the third T20I.
