Like a countdown T20 World Cup 2026 reaches its final week, the former India solid Suresh Raina made a bold prediction about who would end the country’s 16-year drought in a World Cup century. Since Raina’s own 101 vs South Africa In 2010, no Indian has crossed the triple figure in the history of the tournament.
Suresh Raina’s surprise pick for India’s T20 World Cup 2026 top scorer of the century
Despite their recent struggles in the ongoing series New ZealandRaina threw his full support behind Sanju Samson. Speaking to News18 on January 29, 2026, Raina backed the Kerala wicketkeeper to join the exclusive club of World Cup centurions.
“Sanju Samson can be in this list. He opens the batting and he has the ability. He has already scored a century in South Africa. Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan are also there. One of them can do it. But somehow, Sanju can get a century in this T20 World Cup. I think the form is temporary. Sanju has that class. He has done it for years whether he plays in India or not.” Raina said.
Raina also drew a comparison between Samson and the current captain, noting: “Look at Suryakumar Yadav. He hasn’t scored for almost a year. But still the coach has backed him. I think it’s the same story with Sanju. If he gets a chance, he will definitely do well.” Raina concluded.
Also READ: India’s leading wicket-taker in T20 World Cup 2026? Suresh Raina and Anil Kumble reveal their picks
India’s final dress rehearsal and T20 World Cup 2026 road
The fifth and final T20I against New Zealand on January 31 will be a homecoming for Samson at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. This match will be the last opportunity for Samson to repay Raina’s faith before India turn their attention to their official World Cup campaign.
India’s upcoming cricket matches and events
| Event | History | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5th T20I vs NZ (Final Series Decider) | January 31 | Thiruvananthapuram | Samson’s home |
| Staff Assembly | February 3 | mumbai | Tilak Varma and the full cast of WC come together |
| T20 World Cup Opener | February 7 | Wankhede Stadium | India v. United States; The title defense begins |
| ‘Big’ | February 15 | Colombo | India – Pakistan; Group A clash |
