IND vs NZ 2026: ‘I am certain things are going on in Samson’s mind’ - Former CSK player dives into wicketkeeper-batter’s mindset

Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin made a strong remark on wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson following the fourth T20I against New Zealand, in which India suffered a 50-run defeat. Chasing a daunting target of 216, Samson showed promise but was dismissed for 24 off 15 balls.

With the T20 World Cup 2026 approaching, Samson has been under pressure due to a string of low scores. Ashwin observed that Samson appeared to be overthinking, making it difficult for him to judge the lines and lengths. He also noted that accommodating Samson in the middle order could disrupt the overall balance of the batting lineup.

"If you are not a good player, you cannot reach here. When your mind is clouded with a lot of thoughts, it gets tough to pick the lengths and lines. I am very certain things are going on in his mind. We cannot make a slot for a player. It is not about running with a player and banking on it. It is also important to tell the player to take a break. Sometimes sitting outside and reflecting can make you a better player. I don't agree that he should go back to the middle order. You cannot make a slot for a player, then everybody else will also rotate around it," Ashwin said on 'Ash ki Baat'.

Despite Samson’s low score once again, Ashwin pointed out that the star batter was attempting to do something different and respond to the challenge, which he saw as a positive sign. However, he also acknowledged that there would be added pressure on Samson to deliver, especially with Ishan Kishan currently in good form.

"They are bowling on the middle and leg to Sanju because he does not have a back and across movement. It is really getting to a point that it is pushing players. He has been pushed to a place where he has to show the bowlers something else. He is trying to do something because he is uncomfortable with the plan being dealt out to him. He has been pushed to a corner but he is willing to try. He is trying to respond. Maybe you will not get the result immediately. This might take time, but he is at least thinking to put pressure on the bowlers. That is a good sign. But he is going on a fine line and there is pressure with Ishan sitting in the dugout," said Ashwin.