Former India all-rounder Suresh Raina has thrown his weight behind Sanju Samson, predicting the Kerala star could become only the second Indian to score a T20 World Cup century after Raina’s own 2010 feat. With Samson set to open for India in the tournament starting February 7, 2026, Raina’s endorsement highlights his class amid form concerns.
Raina’s Bold Prediction for Samson
Raina, India’s first T20 WC centurion, said: “Sanju Samson can be in that list. He opens the batting and has the ability… He has already scored centuries in South Africa.” He named Samson ahead of Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan, citing his explosive potential to break the 16-year wait. Samson, 31, joins a star-studded squad as wicketkeeper-batter.
Defending Samson’s Class Over Form
Addressing Samson’s recent dips, Raina emphasized: “Form is temporary. Sanju has that class… Look at Suryakumar Yadav—he hadn’t scored in a year but got backed and is back.” Raina pointed to Samson’s consistent T20 runs for India and IPL, urging selectors for patience.
Broader Squad Insights from Raina
Raina sees himself in Tilak Varma’s pressure-handling and fielding prowess: “The way he handles pressure… I see myself in him.” He tipped Varun Chakaravarthy as India’s trophy-decider: “Varun’s 24 balls will decide… Batsmen haven’t read him yet.”
