Sun Jan 25 15:20:00 UTC 2026: # Sanju Samson’s Golden Duck Raises Doubts Ahead of T20 World Cup
The Story
In a crucial innings for his place in the team, Sanju Samson, the Malayali player, was dismissed for a golden duck against New Zealand in the third T20 match held in Guwahati. Samson, opening the innings, was clean bowled by pacer Matt Henry on the very first ball. This performance follows scores of 10 and 5 in the first two matches of the series, which were also short innings.
The expectations were high for Samson, especially given the earlier announcement that he might be considered as an opener for India in the upcoming T20 World Cup, seemingly chosen over Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill. However, his poor performance in the New Zealand series has raised serious questions about his suitability for the World Cup squad.
Key Points
- Sanju Samson was dismissed for a golden duck in the third T20 match against New Zealand in Guwahati on January 25, 2026.
- He opened the innings and was bowled out on the first ball by Matt Henry.
- His scores in the previous two matches were 10 and 5.
- There had been prior speculation that Samson might be selected as an opener for the T20 World Cup, potentially over Shubman Gill.
- His performance in the New Zealand series has led to doubts about his place in the World Cup team.
Key Takeaways
- Inconsistent performance: Sanju Samson’s inconsistency remains a significant concern for selectors.
- Pressure mounts: The pressure on Samson to perform has intensified following his recent failures.
- World Cup Ambitions in Jeopardy: His chances of opening for India in the T20 World Cup are now seriously compromised.
- Gill’s Opportunity: Shubman Gill may see a renewed opportunity to stake his claim for a spot on the World Cup team.
First Piper 