'We are not robots', Sanju Samson dismisses opening slot rivalry and critic chatter after Afghanistan blitz

Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson has firmly dismissed rumours of a selection rivalry with teammates Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Abhishek Sharma, stating that the outside narrative of competition does not affect the dressing room's unity. Speaking after his blistering half-century set up India’s comprehensive seven-wicket win over Afghanistan in the second T20I, Samson emphasised that the national team always comes before personal milestones.

Samson, who faced intense scrutiny and calls to be replaced by teenage prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi after a quiet series opener, bounced back in style in New Delhi. Despite pressure from social media and certain former cricketers, the team management persisted with the Samson-Abhishek opening combination, a decision that paid rich dividends.

Team-first approach over personal milestones
"The talk about me competing with others is purely an external narrative," Samson said during the post-match press conference. "We operate as a single unit and we play for our country. Winning matches is our absolute priority, and individual achievements are secondary. We cannot afford to have a negative mindset where one thinks, 'Why am I not playing?' or 'Why is someone else getting the chance?' That kind of attitude simply does not work in this team environment."

Addressing the constant scrutiny Indian players face, Samson admitted to trying to block out the noise, though it is not always easy. "I try to keep my Wi-Fi switched off, but occasionally it gets turned on, and I see what is being said. Even some senior players make comments. It is normal, and we know that external chatter definitely affects cricketers in India. But you cannot let that dictate how you play," he added.

We are not robots, says Samson
Reflecting on how criticism affects athletes mentally, the Kerala batsman offered a candid perspective. "I have enough experience now to handle these external pressures. In the past, these things used to hurt me deeply. We are not machines. To say that none of this affects us would be a lie—we are not robots. It does affect us, but we learn to manage it and focus on our job," Samson explained.

On the pitch, Samson and Abhishek Sharma put on a spectacular show of aggressive batting, making light work of Afghanistan’s 159-run target. The explosive opening duo put together a rapid stand, catapulting India to 82 without loss by the end of the powerplay. Samson led the charge, smashing a sensational 57 off just 22 balls, punctuated by seven boundaries and four towering sixes, while Abhishek contributed a quick-fire 39 off 19 deliveries. With a 2-0 lead, India have already sealed the three-match series ahead of the final game scheduled at the same venue.