Shubman Gill Rise Pushes Sanju Samson Out Of Playing Eleven

Shubman Gill’s ascent in international cricket has been one of the most captivating developments in India’s recent sporting landscape. His remarkable form, maturity at the crease, and ability to anchor innings have now placed him in what many describe as the “Kohli-Rohit league.” This comparison, made by a former South African great, reflects not only Gill’s growing dominance but also the faith the Indian team management has placed in him.

However, Gill’s rise has had an unintended consequence: Sanju Samson, once seen as a strong contender for the opening or middle-order role, now finds himself frequently benched. Despite delivering impactful performances in 2024 with centuries and strong strike rates—Samson’s opportunities in 2025 have been limited. Team management appears focused on building a long-term opening pair, and Gill’s consistency makes him a vital part of that plan.

Gill offers reliability, strong technique, and adaptability across formats. His temperament in high-pressure environments has earned him respect from teammates and coaches alike. This has tilted the balance in his favor, pushing others, including Samson, further down the pecking order.

While Samson remains a talented and explosive player, selectors seem to prefer stability over unpredictability especially with ICC tournaments approaching. His inconsistency in crucial matches may also be a reason behind the hesitation to include him in the starting XI.

Still, Samson’s benching has sparked discussions among fans and cricket experts. Many believe he deserves more chances, especially when other batters go through rough patches. Yet, competition in Indian cricket has always been fierce, and for now, Gill’s remarkable journey has created a roadblock for Samson’s return to the spotlight.

As Indian cricket looks ahead, the battle for limited spots will only grow tougher. Gill seems firmly established, but Samson’s story is far from over. Cricket has a way of surprising everyone and one good series could change everything for him once again.