Why was there applause when Sanju was out? (Photo- PTI)
Sanju Samson, IND vs NZ 5th T20I: The last match of the five-match T20 series between India and New Zealand was played at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. This match was special for Sanju Samson, because it was his first international match on home ground. Kerala fans were excited to see their hero, but Sanju could not make this occasion memorable. But after his dismissal, a scene was seen in the stadium which won everyone’s heart.
Why was there applause when Sanju was out?
Sanju Samson, who came to open, was out in this match after scoring 6 runs in 6 balls, which included only one four. When he returned to the pavilion, there was silence in the stadium, but after this the fans respected him by clapping. The fans encouraged their local boy, who won everyone’s hearts. However, this performance further exposed Sanju’s consistently poor form.
Flopped in 5 consecutive matches
Sanju’s performance in the entire series was very disappointing. He scored only 46 runs in 5 innings. 10 runs in the first match, 6 runs in the second, out on the first ball in the third, 24 runs in the fourth and again 6 runs in the fifth. This figure has become part of the record of lowest runs scored by Indian openers in any 5 match T20 series. Even before this, this record was in the name of Sanju. Sanju had scored only 51 runs in the 5-match T20 series against England in 2025.
This flop performance of Sanju in five consecutive matches has become a big tension for Team India. The T20 World Cup 2026 is approaching, and there is a need for stability in the opening slots. The team management gave him continuous opportunities, but the lack of big scores has raised questions. Options like Ishan Kishan are in good form, which may intensify the debate over Sanju’s place. Ishan Kishan was successful in crossing the 50 run mark in this match also.