Sanju vs Ishan: One Century That Changed India’s World Cup Plan

Cricket is a game of timing, both on and off the field. For Ishan Kishan, the timing could not have been more perfect. For Sanju Samson, it could not have been worse.

In the final dress rehearsal before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, the Indian team management was handed a “problem of plenty” that has turned into a full-blown selection crisis. playing in the 5th T20I against New Zealand at the Greenfield International Stadium—Sanju Samson’s home turf—the narrative was supposed to be about the local hero finding form.

Instead, the night belonged to the pocket dynamo from Jharkhand. Ishan Kishan smashed a sensational maiden T20I century (103 off 43 balls), effectively kicking the door down for the opener’s slot.

Addressing the media post-match, captain Suryakumar Yadav (SKY) finally addressed the elephant in the room: Who walks out to bat with Abhishek Sharma against the USA on February 7?

The “Statement” Knock: Ishan’s 43-Ball Mayhem

With Shubman Gill dropped from the World Cup squad, the second opener’s slot was a direct shootout between Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson.

In Thiruvananthapuram, Ishan didn’t just score runs; he sent a message. Blasting 10 sixes and 6 fours, he dismantled the Kiwi attack, reaching his hundred in just 42 balls. It was an innings of pure, unadulterated aggression—exactly the template India has adopted under SKY’s leadership.

Suryakumar Yadav’s Reaction:

Speaking at the post-match presentation, SKY couldn’t hide his admiration, despite the difficult call he now has to make.

“It was a statement knock. We wanted someone to put their hand up in a high-pressure situation, and Ishan did exactly that. It’s a good headache to have going into a World Cup. We will sit down and decide the best combination, but you can’t ignore an innings like that.”

The Sanju Samson Heartbreak

The contrast at the other end was stark. Walking out to a deafening roar from his home crowd, Sanju Samson had the stage set for a fairytale. However, the pressure seemed to get the better of him.

He departed for a scratchy 6 off 6 balls, marking his fifth consecutive failure in the series.

For a player whose career has been defined by “what ifs,” this series might have been the final straw for his chances of making the starting XI.

Table 1: The Tale of Two Keepers (5th T20I vs NZ)

The Tactical Debate: Left vs. Right

Beyond just the runs, the tactical advantage is swinging heavily towards Ishan Kishan.

1. The Left-Right Combo: With Abhishek Sharma (Left) locking down one spot, India might prefer a Right-hander (Sanju). However, Ishan’s form is currently too hot to drop.
2. Powerplay Exploits: Ishan’s ability to attack from ball one (Strike Rate of 180+ in 2025/26) fits the team’s “all-out attack” philosophy better than Sanju, who often takes time to settle.

Suryakumar on the Opening Pair:

“Abhishek has been fantastic, and we need someone who can match his tempo. Whether it’s Sanju or Ishan, the intent has to be there. Ishan showed that intent today.”

Table 2: Series Form Guide (Last 5 Innings)

The Verdict: Who Opens on Feb 7?

While SKY remained diplomatic, the writing is on the wall.

The “Good Headache” comment usually implies that the incumbent (Sanju) is under serious threat from the challenger (Ishan).

Factors favoring Ishan:

• Recency Bias: A century in the final game is hard to ignore.
• Momentum: He is peaking at the right time.
• Confidence: His body language in the field and with the bat is electric.

Factors favoring Sanju:

• Seniority: He has been in the setup longer.
• Middle-Order Flexibility: If he doesn’t open, can he play at No. 4? (Unlikely, with SKY and Hardik occupying those spots).

Conclusion: The Door Closes for Sanju?

The 5th T20I was meant to be a celebration of Kerala cricket. Instead, it became the coronation of Ishan Kishan as India’s premier T20 opener.

Unless the management pulls a massive surprise, expect Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan to walk out against the USA at the Wankhede Stadium.

As Suryakumar Yadav hinted, form is temporary, but impact is permanent. And right now, Ishan Kishan is making the biggest impact of them all.