Robin Uthappa backs Sanju Samson to open in T20 World Cup 2026

Former India batter Robin Uthappa has publicly backed Sanju Samson to open the batting for India in the T20 World Cup 2026. Speaking on his Instagram, Uthappa emphasized Samson's strong post-2024 T20 World Cup form, noting his consecutive centuries in South Africa and Bangladesh. He questioned the decision to break up Samson's opening partnership with Abhishek Sharma, calling it a 'working partnership.' Uthappa also highlighted Samson's ability to absorb pressure, citing his crucial partnership with Tilak Verma in the Asia Cup final. The selection comes amid BCCI's announcement of the T20 World Cup squad, with Samson included alongside Ishan Kishan as wicketkeeper-batters. Shubman Gill was notably left out due to fitness and form concerns, having scored just 291 runs in 15 innings since his return to the T20 side during the Asia Cup, averaging 24.25 with no half-centuries.