Sanju Samson vs Shubman Gill - who is better T20I opener?

With the T20 World Cup 2026 just two months away, India face an important decision regarding their opening combination. Abhishek Sharma has cemented his place at the top, but the debate surrounding his partner continues to intensify, with Sanju Samson and Shubman Gill emerging as the two leading contenders. While both are exceptional talents, their contrasting styles and recent performances have fuelled discussions on who fits India’s T20I setup better.

Samson has long been recognized for his explosive batting and his ability to dominate from ball one. His T20I numbers highlight both efficiency and impact. Samson has scored 522 runs in just 17 matches, and his strike rate and average showcase a batter who can accelerate without compromising consistency. The freedom to open gives him clarity and rhythm, two aspects that directly influence his natural stroke-making. However, India have used him inconsistently, pushing him down the order as Gill was elevated to vice-captain. This experimentation, from opening to No.7, disrupted his flow and limited his opportunities to play his best role.

On the other hand, Gill brings class, stability, and technical assurance. With 841 runs in 34 T20Is, he has had more time at the international level but has struggled at times to maintain the tempo required in the powerplay overs. The Punjab batter is capable of match-winning knocks but leans toward an anchor-style approach, which can occasionally slow down the innings, especially on high-scoring surfaces. Although the leadership group backs him strongly, Gill’s recent returns have been inconsistent in this format.

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Comparing pure T20 attributes, powerplay impact, strike rate, boundary frequency, and game control, the 31-year-old appears to have an edge. His fearless approach suits modern T20 demands and complements Abhishek’s aggressive intent. Yet, despite superior numbers and a more dynamic profile, the Kerala wicketkeeper-batter finds himself outside the Playing XI, ever since the GT skipper has made a comeback to the T20I side.

With the World Cup beginning in less than a couple of months' time, the Men in Blue need an opener who provides both explosiveness and reliability to help them defend the title from their 2024 victorious edition. On current evidence, Samson fits that role more naturally and could significantly strengthen India’s top order if entrusted with consistent opportunities. However, Gill being the vice-captain rules out that possibility, meaning Samson may have to warm the bench.