BackSPORTS
Sanju Samson on selection fallout after Ishan Kishan surge: ‘I made peace with it’
Samson discusses the emotional fallout of losing his India opening spot to Ishan Kishan ahead of the T20 World Cup, and how he eventually accepted Kishan's form. The timeline follows his January return during the home series against New Zealand, Kishan's resurgence, and Samson's World Cup role shift, culminating in a standout all-round tournament performance.
Why It Matters
The article illustrates how athletes cope with selection setbacks while remaining prepared to contribute, and highlights India’s squad management during a high-profile World Cup campaign.
Timeline
3 Events
May 12, 2026: Ishan Kishan's century in Trivandrum becomes decisive moment
May 12, 2026
Ishan Kishan scored a century in Trivandrum, a moment Samson says confirmed Kishan deserved the opening slot for the World Cup, prompting him to accept that the opportunity would not come his way.
May 2026: World Cup phase — Samson benched, then recalled to counter off-spin and shine
May 2026
Samson spent the majority of the World Cup on the bench as India faced a challenge against off-spin, before being recalled. He went on to score over 320 runs in five innings, including fifties in both the semifinal and the final, and was named Player of the Tournament as India retained the trophy.
January 2026: Samson returns from NZ series and earns World Cup opportunity
January 2026
Samson returned during India's home series against New Zealand in January 2026 and was in consideration for a last-minute inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad after the plan to pick Shubman Gill was scrapped.