T20 WC 2026: Gambhir reveals reason behind Samson's mid-tournament inclusion
What's the story
Gautam Gambhir, India's head coach, has clarified the rationale behind Sanju Samson's mid-tournament inclusion in the T20 World Cup. Despite a lackluster performance in the home series against New Zealand and only one appearance in India's first five matches, Samson returned to the squad for the Super Eight match against Zimbabwe. He went on to score three consecutive 85-plus scores in must-win games and was named Player of the Tournament for his contributions to India's successful campaign.
Strategy
It was a tactical change, says Gambhir
Gambhir emphasized that the decision to bring back Samson was more tactical than courageous. He said, "More than the courage, it was a tactical change." He added that neither he nor the captain ever thought Samson was out of form. They believed he just needed a break after the New Zealand series. The coach also highlighted India's squad depth, saying they had Rinku Singh batting at that number and could have tried different combinations due to their strong bench strength.
Game style
Coach defends India's high-risk approach in T20s
Gambhir defended India's high-risk approach in T20s, saying it has yielded desired results most of the time. He said, "I always believe that high risk, high reward is the only way to play a T20 format." The coach further explained his mindset by saying if you fear losing a game of cricket, you'll never win. He stressed on creating maximum impact on every ball in this format and not playing subdued after a loss.
Coaching philosophy
Gambhir on his vision as coach
Gambhir also spoke about his vision as a coach, saying he wanted to create something unique rather than inherit anything. He said, "I don't believe in inheriting anything; I believe in creating something." The coach stressed on playing a brand of cricket that everyone would be proud of and not fearing losing a game. He said they have created something all the players in the dressing room can be proud of and their entire country should be proud of them too.
Stats
Samson's dream T20 WC campaign in numbers
Samson's match-winning 89 in the final against NZ took his 2026 T20 WC tally to 321 runs from just five matches at 80.25. These are the third-most runs by any batter in a T20 WC edition. He had a stellar strike rate of 199.37, with three fifties to his name. Samson finished the record-breaking campaign with 24 sixes - most by an batter in a T20 WC edition.