India’s squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe has sparked widespread discussion following the omission of Sanju Samson. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a 15-member squad on Monday, July 6, with several fresh faces earning maiden call-ups, but Samson was among the notable absentees despite his outstanding performances in recent ICC events.

His continued absence from the Zimbabwe-bound squad has prompted reactions from fans, former cricketers and teammates alike. Among those to publicly back Samson was veteran India batter and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Ajinkya Rahane, whose Instagram post quickly gained attention across social media.

Ajinkya Rahane backs Sanju Samson after Zimbabwe squad snub

Rahane took to Instagram Stories to express his disappointment over Samson’s omission from the Indian squad. While acknowledging that selection decisions are part of the game, the experienced batter hoped the wicketkeeper had been informed about the decision and expressed confidence that Samson would soon return to the national side. Sharing his thoughts, Rahane wrote:

“Hope there has been some communication with @imsanjusamson. Find it odd that the hero of our recent T20 WC win has been left out of the T20 squad to Zimbabwe. Hope to see him back in the team soon.”

The post quickly went viral among cricket fans, with many echoing Rahane’s sentiments and praising him for publicly supporting his fellow Indian cricketer during a difficult phase.

Also READ: England reveal playing XI for 3rd T20I against India; Harry Brook retains winning combination

Samson’s T20 World Cup heroics remain fresh in memory

Rahane’s message comes after Samson’s impressive performances in India’s victorious 2026 T20 World Cup campaign. The Kerala batter scored 321 runs in five innings at an average of 80.25 and a strike rate of 199.37, finishing as the tournament’s Player of the Tournament.

Despite his match-winning contributions, Samson’s omission from the Zimbabwe T20I squad sparked debate. The wicketkeeper-batter had already come under scrutiny after being dropped from India’s playing XI during the ongoing T20I series against England, with teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi making his debut in his place.

India’s three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe begins on July 23 in Harare, with Shreyas Iyer set to lead the side. Samson will now be aiming to force his way back into the national setup.

Also READ: Fans slam BCCI after Sanju Samson misses out on India’s T20I squad for Zimbabwe series