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Kaif On Samson: Gill Being Groomed For Captaincy, So Samson Lost His Spot

Kaif On Samson: Gill Being Groomed For Captaincy, So Samson Lost His Spot

IN SHORTFormer India cricketer Mohammad Kaif claimed that the national team’s selectors are grooming Shubman Gill as the future captain, which he believes is why Sanju Samson lost his place in the playing XI. Kaif highlighted that despite Samson’s good form, the team opted for Gill’s inclusion and Jitesh Sharma’s finishing role, shifting team strategy around leadership succession rather than pure performance metrics.

TL;DR

  • Mohammad Kaif said that Shubman Gill’s elevation to vice-captain secured his spot in all T20Is, sidelining Samson despite his strike-rate and recent form.
  • Kaif noted that Jitesh Sharma was viewed as a better finisher at number five/six, further reducing Samson’s chances.
  • He argued that although Samson had strong numbers, the team’s long-term strategy favoured grooming Gill as future captain.
  • The comments reignite discussion about selection transparency, senior-player loyalty and team balance in Indian cricket.
  • Analysts mention that selectors face pressure to balance youth leadership with proven experience ahead of major ICC events.