India vs Bangladesh: Is the time ticking for Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma?

Openers Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson struggled in the first two T20Is against Bangladesh, failing to make a significant impact. Abhishek scored 16 and 15 runs in the two matches, while Samson fared slightly better with 29 and 10 runs. With key players like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ruturaj Gaikwad absent from the squad, this series presented a golden opportunity for the duo to impress the team management and selectors, potentially securing their places in the T20I lineup. However, their inability to capitalize on this chance has raised concerns. Former cricketer Aakash Chopra highlighted this issue during his analysis of the matches, emphasizing that such opportunities are rare and not to be taken lightly. He pointed out that their underwhelming performances could have repercussions for their future selections, suggesting that the door may be closing for them.

Chopra also expressed doubts about whether Abhishek and Samson would be called up for the upcoming series against South Africa, particularly after their disappointing showings in the Bangladesh series. The pressure is mounting on the pair as they face increasing scrutiny, and they will need to demonstrate improvement to remain in contention for the national team. With competition for spots fierce, they must step up their game in future opportunities to avoid being sidelined.

“Abhishek Sharma is one and Sanju Samson is also there along with him. It is a crude reminder that two knocks have passed, and you haven't contributed significantly. You have the license to play long knocks,” Aakash Chopra said in a video shared on his YouTube channel.

“When the South Africa tour comes, who knows Yashasvi, Shubman and Ruturaj might be available, and Sanju and Abhishek are opening. Suddenly you have five openers and five won't play. Ishan Kishan might also start knocking on the door after some time. When you find yourself in that situation, you might regret that you wasted your chances,” he added.

The playing surface in New Delhi posed early challenges for the batters, leading to a tough start in the match. However, conditions improved significantly after the powerplay, allowing players to settle in and play more freely. Aakash Chopra noted this shift during his commentary, emphasizing that the initial struggle shouldn’t compel batters to adopt an overly aggressive approach right from the outset. Chopra pointed out that while attacking play is essential in T20 cricket, it is equally important for players to take their time and establish themselves at the crease. Once settled, they possess the skills and confidence to effectively score runs and dominate the opposition. This strategy allows batters to gauge the pitch conditions better and adapt their game accordingly.

He reiterated that rushing into an aggressive mode too early can often lead to unnecessary dismissals, which could be detrimental to the team's overall performance. Instead, players should focus on building partnerships and accumulating runs gradually, particularly when the surface is initially challenging. By maintaining composure and playing to their strengths, batters can make a significant impact as the innings progresses. Chopra’s insights serve as a valuable reminder that patience and strategic play can be just as crucial to success in T20 matches as flamboyant strokes and aggressive tactics.

“These two matches have passed. You will need to give yourself a little time. If a big score can be made, let's not sell ourselves short, that's what I feel. This is the same for Abhishek and Sanju Samson because you are getting the chance to open, and you have the entire 20 overs,” Chopra concluded.