Gautam Gambhir asked to back struggling Sanju Samson ahead of India's T20 World Cup journey

Sanju Samson and Gautam Gambhir [Source: AFP]

Former India batter Ajinkya Rahane has come forward to support Sanju Samson, who is currently struggling for runs in the ongoing India vs New Zealand T20I series. 

With the 2026 T20 World Cup getting closer, Rahane believes this is the right time for the Indian team management to show trust and patience in Samson, rather than dropping him due to poor form.

Ajinkya Rahane wants Gautam Gambhir to support Sanju Samson

So far in the series, Samson’s return has been disappointing. His struggles continued in the Guwahati T20I, where he was dismissed for a golden duck. Overall, he has scored only 16 runs in three matches this year, which has raised concerns about his place in the team. 

However, despite these numbers, Rahane feels this phase can be overcome if the leadership group gives Samson clarity and confidence.

Speaking on Cricbuzz, Rahane said that backing talented players during tough times is very important. According to him, both head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav have a big role to play in helping Samson regain his confidence.

"That's where I feel the team management's role and the captain's role will be crucial, telling Sanju Samson that 'You're going to play all these matches and also in the (T20) World Cup as well. So don't worry about your place'," Rahane said, speaking on Cricbuzz.

"Sanju Samson will have this pressure on himself as he's basically trying to match Abhishek Sharma. The only thing for Sanjay Samson is sticking to his own game plan and backing himself," Rahane said.

Sanju Samson fails to deliver

Notably, Sanju Samson has been brought back as an opener in India’s T20I side, but his return has not gone according to plan. Even though India has taken a strong 3-0 lead in the five-match series against New Zealand, Samson has scored just 10, 6, and 0 in his three outings.

At the same time, Ishan Kishan has been performing very well, which has put Samson’s role as the first-choice wicketkeeper-batter under pressure.

However, Rahane strongly advised Samson not to compare himself with Abhishek. He said Samson has a different skill set and should focus on his own strengths. 

“We spoke about Abhishek Sharma at the other end, but let’s not compare them. I think Sanju has a different ability. He should just go out there and think about his older innings — the good ones he’s played for Rajasthan Royals — and express himself.

“That will really help him get back in form. Even a 15-ball 25, a 20-ball 30 or 35 is okay, but spending that little bit more time at the crease is important. Take the first over out, take the second over out, and then take the game on from there,” he added.

Abhishek Sharma unleashes carnage against New Zealand

Meanwhile, Abhishek Sharma has continued to grab headlines with his explosive batting, including a half-century in just 14 balls, which helped India seal the series. Still, the spotlight remains on Samson, who has managed only 104 runs in his last nine innings as an opener. 

As India prepares for the final two matches on January 29 and 31, the focus will be firmly on Samson, who will be eager to deliver strong performances and secure his spot ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.