The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 may have crowned Sanju Samson as the Player of the Tournament, but the impact of his performances could extend far beyond
the shortest format. Samson's consistency under pressure and his ability to anchor and accelerate have now strengthened the argument for his inclusion in India's ODI plans as the team begins preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
In a tournament defined by high pressure knockout matches, Samson delivered when it mattered most. The Kerala batter produced three successive match defining half centuries against the West Indies national cricket team, England national cricket team and New Zealand national cricket team, and in each of those games he finished as India's leading run scorer. More importantly, these knocks came in situations where India needed stability as well as aggression.
Ability to Shift Gears Makes Samson Valuable
What stood out during Samson's World Cup campaign was the maturity in his approach. Unlike many T20 batters who rely purely on power hitting, Samson built his innings around proper cricketing shots.
Even when attacking, his strokes were largely timed rather than forced. Whether it was lofted drives over extra cover or wristy flicks over midwicket, Samson maintained balance and composure at the crease.
Another key strength in his batting is his use of the depth of the crease. By moving back or forward depending on the length, Samson consistently disrupted bowlers' plans and found scoring opportunities in all phases of the innings.
Equally impressive was his ability to shift gears effortlessly. In the middle overs he rotated strike and controlled the tempo, before accelerating once set, a skill particularly valuable in the ODI format.
Why Samson Fits India's ODI Template
These attributes make Samson an ideal candidate for India's ODI side. As India and head coach Gautam Gambhir begin planning for the 2027 ODI World Cup, the team will need a flexible batting lineup capable of adapting to different match situations.
Samson's batting style aligns perfectly with the demands of modern ODI cricket.
He has the technique to handle the new ball if required, the temperament to build long innings, and the power to accelerate in the closing overs.
Given India's evolving top order, Samson could easily slot in as a top order batter who can control the innings while maintaining a healthy scoring rate.
A Genuine Wicketkeeper Option
Samson's case becomes even stronger because of his wicketkeeping ability.
India's current ODI setup relies heavily on KL Rahul as the wicketkeeper batter, but Rahul is not a specialist glovesman. Samson, on the other hand, offers a natural wicketkeeping option while strengthening the batting order.
Having a specialist keeper who can also bat in the top order would provide India with greater flexibility in team selection.
A Message for the Selectors
Samson's performances in the T20 World Cup were not just about winning matches. They also served as a reminder of his all format potential.
For years, debates have surrounded his role in the national team, often questioning whether he fits into India's plans. However, his tournament winning contributions have made a strong case that ignoring him in the ODI setup would be difficult.
Competition Within the ODI Setup
His emergence could also intensify competition within the Indian ODI squad.
With Rohit Sharma currently opening the batting and playing only the ODI format for India, Samson's rise adds another dimension to India's top order conversation as the team gradually builds towards the next World Cup cycle.
Healthy competition for places is often a hallmark of successful teams, and Samson's performances ensure that selectors will have more options to consider.
A Key Piece for India's 2027 Vision
As India begins shaping its squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup, the team management will look for players capable of delivering in high pressure moments while maintaining tactical flexibility.
Samson's T20 World Cup campaign showcased precisely those qualities.
If India's goal is to build a balanced and adaptable ODI side, the performances of Sanju Samson in the T20 World Cup 2026 have made one thing increasingly clear. He deserves serious consideration in the team's long term plans.
![[WATCH] ‘I have been in that place, wanted to reassure him’ - Rohit Sharma reveals conversation with Sanju Samson](https://g-mob.glance-cdn.com/public/fc/image/b74fmQpFMAw0.webp)
