Sanju Samson, the wicketkeeper and player of the Indian national team, emphasized that external margins can affect him, but he has learned to manage these effects by focusing on his preparation and role in the team. He expressed his support for the team-oriented approach of the leadership group following India's decisive victory over Afghanistan in the second T20I match.
India's Victory and Team Challenges
The Indian national team achieved an unassailable 2-0 lead in this three-match series with a seven-wicket victory over Afghanistan on Tuesday. The two teams will meet again in the final match on September 17.
Samson said in the post-match press conference that scoring points for the Indian team is a challenge and players must make tough decisions when team interests take priority. He added, "Scoring points for the Indian team is not easy. A young player (Vibhav Suriyavanshi) gets called up after scoring 700-800 runs in the Indian Premier League. I had played in a tournament before that, but Suriyavanshi performed so well that he had to be called up. I hadn't performed well in two or three games while he was in great form."
Managing Criticism and Pressures
Samson, who recently scored 57 runs, stated that his experience as an IPL captain has helped him understand these types of decisions and emphasized the importance of communication between players and the leadership group. He said, "Communication with GG (Gautam Gambhir) was very important. We talked extensively during the England T20I series and even before the start of this new series. Making tough decisions is not easy—making popular decisions is the easiest thing to do."
Samson also mentioned that he tries to stay away from the margins, but admitted that opinions can affect players. He added, "I try to turn off Wi-Fi. But sometimes Wi-Fi turns on and opinions are visible. I am mature and experienced enough to deal with it." He also referred to India's victory in the World Cup, stating that this victory has helped him cope well with pressures and play confidently.
