Vihari Trashes Selection Fairness, Calls Out Abhishek Sharma Hype Over Sanju Samson

Former India cricketer Hanuma Vihari has questioned the team management’s decision to continue backing Abhishek Sharma despite his inconsistent performances in the ongoing T20I series against Zimbabwe. Vihari raised concerns over selection fairness, comparing Abhishek’s repeated opportunities with the limited chances given to Sanju Samson despite his performances on the international stage. Speaking ahead of the third T20I between India and Zimbabwe, Vihari expressed disappointment over what he viewed as different standards being applied to players competing for places in the Indian team.

He pointed out that Abhishek had received several opportunities despite failing to make a significant impact with the bat, while Samson was not given similar backing despite delivering strong performances, including during the T20 World Cup. Abhishek Sharma, who has been considered a promising young talent in India’s T20 setup, struggled to convert his opportunities in the Zimbabwe series. In the third T20I, he was dismissed after scoring just two runs, adding to concerns over his current form.

His performances have led to discussions among fans and former cricketers about whether consistent backing should be balanced with recent form and competition for places. Vihari highlighted Sanju Samson’s case while making his argument, stating that the wicketkeeper-batter had performed well when given opportunities but did not receive the same level of confidence from selectors and team management. Samson has often faced scrutiny over his place in the squad despite impressive domestic and international performances.

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The former India batter suggested that selection decisions should follow a consistent approach for all players. According to him, if one player is given extended opportunities despite poor returns, others who have performed well should also receive similar backing and a longer run in the team. Abhishek earned attention after impressive performances in domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League, where his aggressive batting style made him one of the most talked-about young Indian players.

His ability to attack from the opening position has been seen as a valuable asset in the shortest format, but maintaining consistency at the international level remains a challenge. The debate comes as India continues to build its T20 squad following the transition phase after the retirement of senior players from the format. The team management has been focusing on giving opportunities to younger players while identifying the core group for future tournaments. However, selection decisions have continued to attract discussion, especially when highly rated players compete for limited spots.

The comparison between Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson has renewed conversations about whether reputation, potential and long-term planning should outweigh current form when selecting players. As the Zimbabwe series progresses, Abhishek will be hoping to repay the faith shown by the team management with a strong performance. Meanwhile, the debate raised by Vihari reflects the wider challenge faced by selectors in balancing opportunities for emerging talent with rewarding players who have performed consistently.

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