The Indian T20 setup could soon see a massive change. Reports suggest that Gautam Gambhir eyes Rishabh Pant as the next wicketkeeper-batter if Sanju Samson continues to falter ahead of the T20 World Cup.
At present, Samson remains the preferred keeper in T20Is under Gambhir’s watch. The Kerala-born cricketer earned trust during Suryakumar Yadav’s captaincy phase, but his recent outings have raised serious questions. Ever since his role was tweaked to a middle-order slot, his consistency has sharply declined.
Yesterday’s clash in Melbourne was another low point. Pushed up to No.3, Samson had a golden chance to silence critics. Yet, in just four deliveries, he looked uncomfortable against pace and movement. Nathan Ellis trapped him LBW, and Samson wasted a review on his way back.
Rishabh Pant to replace Sanju Samson?
According to Telecom Asia Sport, Gambhir and the Indian think tank are already preparing contingencies. They reportedly want Rishabh Pant to become India’s all-format wicketkeeper. Samson’s form slump has forced management to rethink long-term plans.
This year, Samson has managed just 185 runs in 10 T20I innings at a strike rate of 120.91 — his worst since debut. His struggles to adapt to different batting orders have only made things worse.
An insider told Telecom Asia Sport, “Under Gautam Gambhir’s results-driven approach, consistent performances will be the key. Unless Samson delivers soon, he could slip further behind as India looks to build a settled, attacking squad for the World Cup.”
Sanju Samson’s T20I record
| Year | Innings | Runs | Avg | SR | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career | 43 | 995 | 25.51 | 147 | 3 | 3 |
| 2024 | 12 | 436 | 43.60 | 180 | 3 | 1 |
| 2025 | 10 | 185 | 18.50 | 120 | 0 | 1 |
His dip from 2024’s explosive form to 2025’s mediocrity is alarming.
Where does Rishabh Pant stand?
Pant, meanwhile, has returned from injury after fracturing his toe during the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy in July. Following surgery and rehab, he has rejoined competitive cricket, leading India A in a series against South Africa A.
While Pant remains Test vice-captain, his T20I comeback hasn’t been prioritized. His last T20I appearance came in July 2024, and India has since relied on Samson, with Dhruv Jurel and Jitesh Sharma as backups.
If Pant returns to T20Is, selectors face a tricky choice. Dropping Samson may look harsh, but his form leaves little room for emotion. Jitesh and Jurel haven’t had enough chances, while Pant’s own T20I numbers — 1209 runs at 23.25 average and 127.26 strike rate — aren’t reassuring either.
Still, Gambhir’s management style is about momentum and reliability. If Samson continues to falter, Pant could be the surprise package India unveils before the World Cup. Fans can follow exclusive updates and analysis on cricketarmy.com for insights into this growing wicketkeeper debate.
Gautam Gambhir eyes Rishabh Pant — and the next few months could decide who keeps India’s gloves in the biggest tournament of 2025.
