IND vs SA: The much-anticipated five-match T20I series between India and South Africa kicked off at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack, and as expected, the focus quickly shifted to India's team selection.
With multiple returnees and a packed talent pool, several selection calls generated discussion - particularly the absence of Sanju Samson and Harshit Rana from the playing XI.
India continued with a strategy built around flexibility and multi-skill players, which meant that Samson once again failed to make the cut despite being in the squad. The wicketkeeping role for the opening encounter was handed to Jitesh Sharma, whose skillset aligns more naturally with the finishing role India wants at No. 6 or No. 7.
With Hardik Pandya returning to the side and Shubman Gill reclaiming his position at the top, Samson - originally seen as a potential opener - was pushed into the middle-order bracket, where he hasn't been able to cement his spot.
Samson's struggle to adapt as a consistent finisher has been a defining factor in the selection call. Jitesh, on the other hand, is known for his ability to accelerate from ball one - a trait that has earned him preference in India's current tactical approach. With Shivam Dube expected to slot at No. 5 and Hardik at No. 6, Samson didn't find a vacancy in the top or lower middle order.
Meanwhile, Harshit Rana, who has been making waves under the guidance of Gautam Gambhir, also missed out. His non-selection is largely down to India's established pace attack for this game. With Jasprit Bumrah back in the side and Arshdeep Singh continuing his impressive form from the ODI series, there was little room for experimentation with the new ball. The team also opted for experience and bowling depth rather than potential upside.
Other notable omissions included Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar, highlighting India's preference for balance and flexibility over rotation in the series opener.
With four matches still to go, Samson and Rana may get their chances - but for now, India has backed its trusted core.
