Selection Dilemma: Samson and Vaibhav Suryavanshi Together in New Zealand

India’s next challenge will be the three‑format tour of New Zealand, beginning with a two‑match T20 series. Former opener Chetan Pujara warned that slotting both Sanju Samson and Vaibhav Suryavanshi into the playing eleven could prove problematic.

He explained that New Zealand’s pitches often favor seamers and require teams to field more all‑rounders, either spinners who can bowl a few overs or seamers who can contribute with the bat. This strategic need may reduce the space for two specialist top‑order batsmen.

Pujara suggested that Samson could retain the opening role, while Suryavanshi might have to wait for an injury or a change in conditions to earn his place. "He will get opportunities, but not necessarily in every match of the series," Pujara clarified, emphasizing flexibility in team selection.