Shastri Tips Samson to Lead India After SKY in T20Is

Ravi Shastri, the ex-India coach known for his sharp insights, sees Sanju Samson as the natural successor to Suryakumar Yadav in T20 captaincy. Drawing from Samson's IPL stints with Rajasthan Royals—including a runner-up finish in 2022—Shastri argues the Kerala stalwart's experience makes him ideal. The 2026 T20 World Cup was Samson's coming-of-age story. His explosive innings in knockout stages clinched him Player of the Tournament honors, proving his big-match temperament. This, combined with top-order firepower, positions him strongly for leadership. On ICC Review, Shastri elaborated: 'By 2028, we might see a captaincy change if SKY's run falters. Sanju's RR captaincy prepays dividends. He's a top-order threat and leader in waiting. Watch him dominate the next 2-3 years.' Samson's international resurgence is undeniable. Three straight fifties in the World Cup triumph have quelled consistency debates. Shastri lauded his growth: 'He's answered every critic. That talent was always there; now he's delivering in IPL and beyond, winning quarters, semis, finals single-handedly.' With five IPL captaincy seasons under his belt, Samson's pressure-handling skills shine. At 31, his blend of wicketkeeping, batting prowess, and tactical acumen makes him Shastri's pick to steer India through upcoming T20 challenges.