MSK Prasad Defends Gautam Gambhir, But Asks One Big Question on Sanju Samson: ‘Why Drop Him So Soon?’

Former India chief selector MSK Prasad has come out in support of head coach Gautam Gambhir, urging fans and experts not to judge the new coaching regime too quickly. At the same time, Prasad questioned the way Sanju Samson has been handled, saying the wicketkeeper-batter deserved a longer run in the Indian team.

As discussions continue over India’s recent T20 performances, Prasad believes the bigger picture should not be ignored.

‘Wait Until the Full Team Returns’

According to Prasad, it is unfair to evaluate Gautam Gambhir’s coaching stint before India fields its strongest available T20I squad. Injuries, workload management, and player rotation have prevented the team from consistently playing its first-choice combination.

He believes any meaningful assessment of Gambhir’s leadership should come only after the complete squad has had sufficient time together on the field.

ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma Sends Strong Fitness Warning Ahead of England ODIs… India Captain Begins Batting Grind After Family Break

The former selector added that building a successful international team takes time, especially during a transition phase when new players are being tested and senior stars are being managed carefully.

Sanju Samson’s Selection Under the Spotlight

While backing the coaching staff overall, Prasad did not hide his disappointment over Sanju Samson’s treatment.

He questioned why the Kerala batter was dropped after just a few disappointing innings despite making significant contributions during India’s successful T20 World Cup campaign. According to Prasad, players who have delivered on the biggest stage deserve greater confidence from the team management rather than being judged solely on a brief dip in form.

His remarks have once again reignited the debate surrounding Samson’s place in India’s white-ball plans, with many fans arguing that he has not received consistent opportunities compared to other players.

Samson Finds Inspiration Beyond Cricket

Away from the cricket field, Sanju Samson recently shared the qualities that continue to motivate him as a professional athlete.

While attending Wimbledon, Samson praised tennis legend Novak Djokovic, highlighting the Serbian star’s incredible mental strength, physical fitness, and relentless commitment to excellence. He described Djokovic’s discipline as an example that athletes across different sports can learn from.

Samson believes that maintaining focus and consistency over a long career requires the same dedication that has made Djokovic one of the greatest champions in tennis history.

India’s Selection Debate Continues

With major international tournaments approaching, discussions around India’s team selection are unlikely to fade anytime soon.

While MSK Prasad has called for patience with Gautam Gambhir, his comments on Sanju Samson underline an issue that continues to divide cricket followers—how long should talented players be backed before being replaced?

As India prepares for its upcoming assignments, all eyes will be on whether the team management offers Samson another extended opportunity to cement his place in the national side.