The final T20I of 2025 in Ahmedabad did not just end there India lifting the trophy; It reignited one of the most polarizing debates in Indian cricket. India won the series 3-1 South Africa On Friday, December 19, the spotlight moved from the scoreboard to the comment box, here Ravi Shastri He took a direct look at the selection calls of the Gautam Gambhir-led management.
Sanju Samson shines in the absence of Shubman Gill
India forced a change to decide the series at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Vice-captain Shubman Gill opened the door for him and injured his leg Sanju Samson returning to his preferred slot at the top of the order.
Samson wasn’t just playing; sent a message. In the first five innings, he destroyed the Proteas’ pace attack, smashing 37 (4 boundaries, 2 sixes) off 22 balls. His clinical timing and aggressive intent provided the powerplay-plus start India were looking for.
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Ravi Shastri questions the team management over Samson’s continued absence
Samson looks at his hammer Marco Jansen At extra cover, former coach Shastri did not hold back. On live television, his words resonated with millions of fans who have long called for Samson’s consistent inclusion:
“When you see him bat like that, sometimes you wonder why he’s not on that side in the first place? Why does it have to be an injury that sets him up?” Shastri noted.
He emphasized Samson’s natural talent and added: “He’s a natural for the position at the top… already three hundreds in T20 cricket, two back-to-back against South Africa. He’s explosive and dangerous.”
Shastri’s criticism points to a deeper tactical struggle within the current establishment. Under Gambhir, the management preferred Gill as a long-term leader and key. However, Gill’s T20I form has been under the microscope, managing just 33 runs in his three outings in this series – four runs less than what Samson scored in an outing on Friday.
