India head coach Gautam Gambhir has revealed that Sanju Samson has been fully informed about the reasons behind his omission from the playing XI, while refusing to shut the door on the wicketkeeper-batter’s return later in the ongoing T20I series against England.
Samson has also been left out of India’s squad for the upcoming Zimbabwe tour, but Gambhir stressed that the experienced batter continues to remain in the team’s plans despite the difficult phase.
Gambhir Says Samson Has Complete Clarity
Following India’s crushing 125-run defeat in the third T20I at Nottingham, Gambhir said he had personally spoken to Samson about his role and future with the team.
“The clarity that should have been given to Sanju Samson, he has got from me,” Gambhir said.
“That conversation is between a head coach and a player. The contents of that conversation are obviously not something I’ll share with you.”
The India coach also acknowledged Samson’s contribution during the T20 World Cup, where the 31-year-old played a key role in India’s triumph and was named Player of the Tournament.
“We are absolutely clear that what Sanju has done for India, especially during the World Cup, has been phenomenal,” Gambhir added.
Samson Still In India’s England Series Plans
Despite being dropped after a string of low scores, Gambhir insisted Samson remains firmly in contention and could return before the five-match series concludes.
The Kerala batter managed scores of 5, 0 and 1 across his last three T20I innings against Ireland and England before making way for 15-year-old opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
“There is no hard and fast rule that he cannot make a comeback in this series,” Gambhir said.
India currently trail England 0-2 after the opening match was washed out and successive defeats in the next two games.
Current Form Will Continue To Drive Selection
Gambhir made it clear that selection decisions will continue to be based on form and team balance rather than reputation.
Samson’s omission from the Zimbabwe T20I squad also reflects that approach, with Prabhsimran Singh earning a call-up after an impressive IPL season for Punjab Kings.
“Ultimately, international cricket is about results. Whatever we feel is the best combination to get us those results, we will play that combination and that playing XI,” Gambhir said.
“I’ve always believed that everyone needs to earn their place. Everyone needs to earn the right to play for India.”
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