Gautam Gambhir’s Old Posts Praising Sanju Samson Go Viral Why Is Sanju Samson Still Out Of Indias Playing XI
Why Sanju Samson Is Again At The Center Of Controversy
Every cricket series in India brings a new talking point and this time the wave of discussion revolves around Sanju Samson. A player once hailed as the future superstar of Indian cricket. A player repeatedly praised by Gautam Gambhir for his explosive talent and rare batting ability. Yet the same player now struggles to find a place in Indias playing eleven.
Three old social media posts by Gautam Gambhir have resurfaced and are spreading like wildfire. These posts show how intensely he once supported Samson. But now that Gambhir is Indias head coach, Sanju remains on the bench. This contrast has ignited widespread anger among fans.
This controversy is a mix of emotions statistics old statements and present day selection decisions. Let us understand the entire matter in detail.
When Gautam Gambhir Loudly Supported Sanju Samson
Gautam Gambhir is known in Indian cricket as a man of strong opinions and fearless statements. Between 2019 and 2021 he openly backed Sanju Samson multiple times. His praise was not ordinary it reflected his belief that Samson was a long term asset for Indian cricket.
First Viral Post
Gambhir said it was surprising that Samson was not getting the respect and continuity he deserved. According to him very few players in world cricket possessed the kind of natural attacking ability that Samson had.
Second Post
Gambhir clearly stated that Samson was Indias best wicketkeeper batsman. According to him if any player deserved the number four position in a World Cup it was Sanju Samson.
Third Post
This was the most talked about post in which Gambhir said that even if a player gets out for zero twenty one times if that player has rare talent and the team needs his skills he should not be dropped.
These posts made one thing very clear. Gambhir saw Samson as a special talent and a better option than many contemporaries in the middle order and wicketkeeping category.
Why Gambhir’s Approach Looks Different After Becoming Coach
Now the biggest question arises. If Gambhir admired Samson so much why is Samson repeatedly missing from the playing XI under his coaching. This is exactly what enraged fans are pointing out.
Change in Team Combination
After becoming head coach Gambhir is responsible for the overall balance of the team. It is not just about appreciating talent but choosing players who fit into the combination at the right time.
Rise of Shubman Gill
Gill has turned into a technically sound consistent and mentally strong opener. Dropping him becomes nearly impossible. His stability at the top has changed the teams dynamics.
Increasing Competition Among Wicketkeepers
With Rishabh Pant returning Jitesh Sharma delivering aggressive knocks and Ishan Kishan in the mix the wicketkeeping slot has become heavily crowded.
Clarity of Role in Team Strategy
Gambhirs coaching philosophy is simple. Every player must have a fixed role. Sanju has played both as an opener and a middle order batsman. This fluctuation in roles affected his spot in the team.
Did Sanju Samson Really Get A Fair Chance
This question is at the heart of the debate. It is true that Samson has been given opportunities. But did he ever get a continuous consistent run like many other players
Strong Numbers Yet Uncertainty
In T20 cricket Samson has three centuries and one impressive fifty as an opener. His strike rate has remained exceptional and his hitting range makes him stand out.
On the other hand Shubman Gill has built his reputation on technique temperament and long innings. But compared directly Samson brings destructive power hitting that Gill does not.
The Consistency Argument
The biggest criticism of Samson is that he lacks consistency. Coaches and selectors often want players who stabilize the innings and play responsibly every match.
However supporters argue that no player can find consistency unless he is given a long uninterrupted run of matches. Something Samson never truly received.
Why Fans Are Comparing Samson To Gill
The comparison is happening because both occupy similar positions in T20 cricket.
Gill Offers Technical Class
Gill plays controlled cricket reads bowlers early and builds long innings. His method suits the team in pressure conditions.
Samson Brings Explosive Impact
Samson’s ability to hit big shots from the first ball is a rare quality. On his day he can destroy any bowling attack. His natural power and fearless striking give him an edge few Indian players possess.
But cricket is not only about talent. Selection also depends on balance competition and strategy. These factors currently do not favour Samson.
Is Team India Missing Samson’s X Factor
Experts are divided on this topic.
One View
Team India already has elite batsmen like Gill Suryakumar Jitesh Pant Hardik and Rohit. With such a strong top and middle order Samson’s absence may not be felt strongly.
Second View
Samson is that rare explosive batsman whose presence can shift momentum instantly. His addition could give India a massive advantage in T20 and ODI cricket especially during chases or high pressure matches.

The Real Equation Between Gambhir And Samson
Despite the online debate there is no rift between Gambhir and Samson. Gambhir respects talent and treats selection professionally.
Gambhirs Philosophy
Team first player later. He believes the system should always prioritize winning combinations even if it means dropping a talented player temporarily.
Samsons Focus
Samson continues to work on his game. Domestic tournaments and the IPL will be crucial for his comeback. He understands that form and opportunity create their own time.
Will Samson Return To The Playing XI
The question is not whether he will return but when. Every cricketer gets the right moment. Samson is still young energetic and immensely talented. If he maintains form and grabs opportunities he will definitely return.
His story is far from over. His talent power hitting and confidence make him one of Indias most dangerous white ball batsmen. All he needs is a defined role and consistent backing.
Conclusion
Gautam Gambhir’s old posts are going viral because they perfectly highlight Sanju Samson’s incredible talent. But the current dynamics of Indian cricket selection strategy competition and team structure have made his path challenging.
Sanju Samson is a chapter that is still being written. His comeback is not a question of if but when. The day he gets a stable run he may once again become the matchwinner that coach Gambhir once described
Indias most gifted wicketkeeper batsman.