IND vs ENG 2025: Suryakumar Yadav speaks on Sanju Samson's position in India squad

The first T20I in Kolkata between India and England is set to be another great battle between two big international sides in the shortest format of the game. This will be a test for both the teams in a five-match T20I series which will feature power-packed oppositions in an intense battle between the bat and the ball.

The Indian team, led by Suryakumar Yadav, will also see wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson feature in his first-ever international outing, after missing out on the squad for the ODI series as well as the Champions Trophy 2025. Getting ignored by the team for the 50-over format, the T20I captain has come in support of the Kerala cricketer, and is confident of his place, at least in the 20-over side.

“Currently, there’s no question mark on the wicketkeepers. Sanju has done really well in the last 7–10 games, and he’s really shown what he is capable of. That’s what we want from all the players in the side, not only the wicketkeeper-batters all the 6–7 batters, have good intent and keep the team first and moving forward in the right direction. Also, he’s got that opportunity, and he’s made use of it, and I’m really happy for him," Surya said during the press conference on Tuesday, January 21. 

Also Read: Watch: Sanju Samson, Abhishek Nayar sing Bollywood hit at Kolkata hotel ahead of first T20I

Sanju Samson’s recent form

Samson could not participate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he could not attend Kerala's preparatory camp, right after the series against four-match series against South Africa, where he had scored a couple of hundreds and won the Player of the Series as well. Despite being in red-hot form, Samson's exclusion from the domestic squad gave spark to controversial discussions in the fraternity.

Speaking of his recent T20I numbers, the dynamic batter has scored 436 runs at an average of 43.60 in his last 13 matches. His strike-rate also remained at a staggering 180.16, keeping up with the demands of fast-paced 20-over drama. This record also includes a half-century and an unbelievable three centuries, two of which came against Proteas, while his debut ton came against Bangladesh in Hyderabad.

The pro cricketer will be looking to continue his form with the impending England series as well, in a bid to give a strong message to the selectors.