Sanju Samson To Be Dropped? 3 India Stars Who Can Open In 4th T20I As Experiment

Abhinav Tyagi∙ Updated: Jan 29 2025, 7:00 PM

Sanju Samson - (Source:@Johns/X.com)Sanju Samson - (Source:@Johns/X.com)

Sanju Samson, who was India's best T20I batter in 2024 with three centuries, is having a tough start to the year. Notably, Samson has played three matches so far that too in the ongoing England series, but has failed to put up a great show with the bat.

In the three matches, he has amassed just 34 runs in three matches and got out by the same bowler in a similar fashion. Going into the 4th T20I, the RR captain is under the scanner, but is assured of his position as India have not named any back-up opener in the squad. 

However, Sanju's place still hang by a thread and there are chances that he too might be dropped for the upcoming T20I on January 31. In such a scenario, this article will shed light on three India stars from current squad who can replace Sanju to open the innings with Abhishek Sharma in the fourth T20I. 

 1. Suryakumar Yadav

The India skipper, who made a name for himself, batting at No.3 and No.4 in T20Is. However, he is at present, struggling for runs and his averaged too has dropped for less than 40 for the first time in his career.

In this time of slump, SKY might look for changes and getting him to open the innings might be the ideal situation for him. Surya might look to utilise the powerplay and regain his lost mojo in the shortest format of the match. 

2. Rinku Singh

At present, Rinku is out of action because of lower back spasm which he suffered while preparing for the first T20I vs England. The BCCI had ruled him out for the 2nd and third T20I. Now if Rinku returns to the team, the management might look to get him to open the innings as he too has not enough game time. 

Even in previous series, Rinku has played out-of-position and only got to bat a few balls. Thus, the management wants him to continue with good touch. 

3.Dhruv Jurel

Another star batter who can open the innings as an experiment is Dhruv Jurel. The budding cricketer featured in the 3rd T20I, but got to bat at No.8, which is not his place and something the Indian management too don't want him bat so low.

Thus, an part of experimentation, which Gambhir is known for, Jurel too can be a great replacement for Sanju Samson.