Ishan Kishan vs Sanju Samson: India's ideal second opener (T20Is)
What's the story
Sporting a belligerent batting order and an astute bowling attack, defending champions India are undoubtedly the favorites to win the 2026 Men's ICC T20 World Cup. However, there is still uncertainty over Abhishek Sharma's opening partner for the event. With Tilak Varma returning to the mix, there is a place for either the out-of-form Sanju Samson or the riveting Ishan Kishan.
Scenario
Why either Samson or Kishan?
For the NZ series and the T20 World Cup, India first brought back Samson as the second opener. The wicketkeeper-batter was slotted back in place of vice-captain Shubman Gill, who was underperforming. And Kishan was slotted in place of the injured Tilak at No. 3. While the latter is set to return, the packed middle order makes for a solitary vacant top-order spot.
Footwork
Samson's footwork woes in NZ series
Samson's indecisive footwork was on display during the five T20Is against New Zealand. To counter the short-ball threat, Samson started moving back in the crease. However, the trigger movement exposed him when tackling the fuller length. He appeared to be pre-empting the shot, resulting in a lack of clarity. Samson scored just 46 runs across five innings with a strike rate of 135.30.
Precision
Kishan makes a mark
Kishan made a mark with his explosive knocks. He hammered 215 runs from four innings at a staggering strike rate of 231.20. This included his maiden T20I ton (103 off 43 balls) that came in the final T20I. After India's first innings in Thiruvananthapuram, Kishan replaced Samson as the wicket-keeper. However, captain Suryakumar Yadav later confirmed that the move was part of their plans.
Career
Samson vs Kishan: Overall T20I stats
Despite being a precious talent, Samson is yet to be consistent. Since making his T20I debut in 2015, he has scored 1,078 runs from 57 matches at a strike rate of 147.46. Although his tally includes 3 tons, he averages under 24. Kishan, who recently returned to the format, completed 1,000 T20I runs (1011 runs from 36 games). His strike rate reads 137.92.
Selection
Kishan has an edge
The Indian team management will likely give preference to the current form. Kishan seems to be a clear winner here. His thunderous shots clearly have an edge over Samson's precarious footwork. India can bank on their two in-form batters (Kishan and Abhishek) at the top, with Tilak and Suryakumar providing stability. Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, and Axar Patel complete their middle order.