Shubman Gill’s T20 Vice-Captaincy Under Threat After Samson’s Explosive Return

Sanju Samson's explosive 37 off 22 balls in India's series-clinching 30-run victory over South Africa in the fifth T20I on Friday has intensified scrutiny on Shubman Gill's position in the T20I setup, particularly as opener and vice-captain. Samson, who returned to the opening slot in place of the injured Gill, provided a brisk start alongside Abhishek Sharma, setting the foundation for India's imposing 231/5. His fluent knock comes just a day before the squad announcement for the upcoming home T20I series against New Zealand and the 2026 T20 World Cup.

Shubman Gill, sidelined with a toe injury sustained during a net session in Lucknow, has struggled to adapt to India's aggressive T20 philosophy since his return to the format. The 26-year-old has not scored a fifty in T20Is since his comeback and has faced criticism for a declining strike rate. Technical adjustments made to his stance for better Test cricket performance appear to have affected his shorter-format batting.

Gill's appointment as T20I vice-captain was part of the BCCI's long-term plan to groom him as an all-format captain to eventually succeed Suryakumar Yadav. However, his inconsistent form has raised questions about retaining the leadership role. Analysts suggest the management may reassess his position, especially with the World Cup on the horizon.

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Sanju Samson, in contrast, boasts stronger recent T20I credentials, including three international centuries in the previous cycle. He was displaced from the opening position to accommodate Gill, leading to discomfort batting lower down and subsequent omission from the playing XI. His performance in the decider reinforces his claim as a natural partner for Abhishek Sharma at the top.

With captain Suryakumar Yadav also enduring a prolonged lean patch, the selectors face challenging decisions. Samson's timely return to form could prove pivotal in reshaping the batting order for the New Zealand series and beyond. The squad announcement expected soon will reveal whether Gill retains his vice-captaincy and opening berth upon recovery.

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