Former BCCI selector Saba Karim is backing Sanju Samson and thinks that the wicket-keeper batter shouldn’t be dropped from the starting XI after three consecutive failures. Samson has managed just six runs in three outings, with 5 and 0 against Ireland. He posted just 1 run off 7 balls in the first T20I against England, leading to criticism from cricket experts and fans. Legendary cricketers Sunil Gavaskar and Ravi Shastri want to include Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the playing XI, and with Samson unable to find form, the calls for the inclusion of the 15-year-old are growing.

Karim highlighted Samson’s performance in the 2026 T20 World Cup and the 19th season of the Indian Premier League.

“Samson shouldn’t be dropped at this stage. He is a fabulous player and has been a match-winner. He was impressive in the Indian Premier League, and before that, he was the Player of the Tournament in the 2026 T20 World Cup. He would be thinking why everyone is pointing the gun at him,” Saba said on Star Sports’ show ‘Follow the Blues’.

Karim mentioned that Sooryavanshi is learning a lot by being part of the squad, and he should wait for his chances.

“It is a good learning curve for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. He needs to understand that he has to earn the call-up. The environment will help him grow as a player and as a human being. He is very talented, but when you have competition for places, you need to wait for your turn,” he added.

Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara, who was part of the same panel, agreed with Saba Karim.

“He has a massive opportunity. He might not get a chance to be in the Playing XI, but he is still part of the national team. If you are in the 15-member squad, it is a big thing, and it is a dream come true for him. When he plays, it will be even a bigger moment for him,” Pujara said.

“He will have to wait. It is a  big positive for Vaibhav Suryavanshi that he is sharing the dressing room with the players. He is training with them and is part of the environment where senior players and the coaches surround him. He is an exceptional player, and his time will come.”

India are currently engaged in a five-match T20I series against England. The opening T20I was called off due to rain, with the second T20I set to be played on Saturday.