‘Don’t see him play’: Sunil Gavaskar settles Sanju Samson vs Ishan Kishan selection debate ahead of T20 World Cup

What happened: Sunil Gavaskar gave a clear verdict on the long-running Sanju Samson vs Ishan Kishan selection debate during the India–New Zealand T20I in Trivandrum.

Why it matters now: His comments hint strongly at India’s T20 World Cup XI direction, indicating who may no longer be part of the team’s core plans.

What changes for people: Fans finally get clarity on India’s likely batting options, especially after Ishan Kishan scored his maiden T20I century.

Who is affected: Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, selectors, and India’s T20 World Cup squad composition.

Gavaskar’s blunt take during live commentary

During the Trivandrum finale of the India–New Zealand series, Sunil Gavaskar didn’t wait until the post-match chatter. On air, he directly addressed the biggest selection debate of the past year: Who should India pick in their T20 World Cup XI — Samson or Ishan?

Gavaskar stated that the selectors had “given Sanju Samson all the opportunities”, but the current performances are making the picture clearer.

He added that with Ishan Kishan’s explosive innings and Tilak Varma likely returning, India’s top order is “looking definite” now.

His tone suggested something fans have long suspected: Samson has slipped out of India’s first-choice plans.

Ishan Kishan’s 103 changes everything

The turning point was Ishan’s maiden T20I hundred, a destructive 103 that powered India to 271 for 5 against New Zealand.

The innings wasn't just a milestone — it was a statement at the perfect moment, only months before the T20 World Cup.

Team management now sees Ishan not just as a backup wicketkeeper, but a serious opening option who can dictate the powerplay.

Gavaskar echoed this sentiment, saying Ishan’s knock has given India “definite thoughts” about the opening slot.

Has Sanju Samson fallen out of the World Cup race?

Gavaskar’s comment “don’t see him play” on TV was subtle but telling.

It suggests the selectors may no longer see Sanju as part of their core 15, especially with:

Ishan in form

Rinku Singh locked in for the finisher’s role

Tilak Varma nearing return

Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya already confirmed starters

Samson’s inconsistency at the international stage remains his biggest hurdle despite dominating domestic cricket.

India’s top order beginning to settle

With Ishan firing and Shubman Gill stabilising, the first three spots are clearer.

Gavaskar’s remarks all but confirmed India’s likely approach:

Openers: Gill + Ishan

No. 3: Suryakumar Yadav

Middle order: Tilak, Hardik, Rinku

Keeper: Ishan (primary), KL Rahul as backup depending on selection

This clarity is crucial as India begins its T20 World Cup preparation cycle.

What to watch next

India’s next T20 series will reveal whether selectors officially move on from Samson. Ishan Kishan’s consistency, Tilak Varma’s return, and Rahul’s availability will shape India’s final squad direction.