'He is not in form and it's very noticeable' - Irfan Pathan raises concern on Sanju Samson’s consistency

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has offered an evaluation of Sanju Samson’s struggles following the wicketkeeper-batter’s continued lean run in the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand. Samson’s dismissal for a first-ball duck in the third T20I at Guwahati once again brought his inconsistency into focus, reigniting the debate around his role in India’s white-ball setup.

Samson had walked into the series under pressure, aware that opportunities were limited in a competitive Indian batting order. Despite being backed as an opener earlier, the Kerala batter has failed to make a meaningful impact against New Zealand, registering scores of 10, 6, 0, and 24 in the four matches so far.

While India sealed the series comfortably, Samson’s personal form has remained a talking point. In his last 15 T20I innings Samson has scored 262 runs with an average of 17.46 and a strike rate of 129 including one fifty.

Pathan acknowledged Samson’s natural ability but did not shy away from highlighting the recurring issue that has followed him throughout his international career.

"I also said Sanju Samson is a fantastic player but not consistent. We have to accept he was never consistent. He is a quality player but his inconsistency was visible in all three games. Samson is inconsistent and he might score runs if given a chance in the next game. He will be in pressure because Ishan Kishan has scored runs and placed himself as a contender, showing the value of domestic cricket," Pathan said on his Youtube channel.

Pathan’s remarks show the growing competition for spots in India’s T20I XI. With Kishan making a strong case through his performances, Samson finds himself under increased scrutiny heading into the remaining matches of the series.

The former India pacer also reflected on how Samson’s role in the side became uncertain following Shubman Gill’s return to the T20I setup. Samson’s position in the order shifted, and the lack of clarity has arguably affected his rhythm.

"Sanju Samson is not in form and it's very noticeable. It's unfortunate for him and he was doing very well once. Then Shubman Gill came. He dropped down the order and found himself out of the side. Now Samson is searching for form. If the form doesn't come, Tilak Varma also comes back and Samson could lose his spot," he added.

The mention of Tilak Varma returning only adds to the pressure surrounding Samson, especially with India’s selectors prioritising form and adaptability in the shortest format.

Pathan further elaborated on why Kishan’s inclusion was significant, stating that selection decisions must remain performance-driven.

"The reason Ishan Kishan was brought into the team was if any player doesn't perform at the top, so Samson could be replaced. Kishan is in form, so pressure will be there. There has to be justice. Samson performs and no one raises questions. I know team runs on performance and when Samson gets an opportunity, he performs," Pathan said.

Despite Samson’s struggles, India have dominated the series, winning the first three matches to secure an unassailable lead. After clinching the opening game by 48 runs, the Men in Blue chased down targets of 209 and 154 with relative ease in the subsequent encounters, showcasing the depth and flexibility of their T20 unit. India lost the fourth T20I , chasing down 215, India were bundled out for 165

Pathan also turned his attention to India’s bowling, particularly left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav, whose form has come under the scanner following a wicketless outing in Guwahati.

"Kuldeep Yadav's performance also needs to be looked at. He is getting slightly inconsistent. It's got to do a lot with confidence. He is very skilful and went wicketless in three overs for 32 runs in Guwahati. Kuldeep didn't appear in form in the ODI series either. The way Daryl Mitchell played, he ruled over him. He didn't let Kuldeep toss the ball up and played well on the back foot too," he added.

Pathan emphasised that Kuldeep’s issues are more mental than technical, urging the spinner to regain confidence and assert control over batters.

"It didn't look like he had plenty of options and he needs to be mentally stronger. I don't think skill is an issue. Kuldeep used to bowl away from the stumps before and now does near them. If Kuldeep moves forward by being mentally stronger, he will perform better," he quoted.