Not only has India’s historic win at the T20 World Cup 2026 really stamped their supremacy in the shortest format, but it has also been instrumental in spurring discussions about the leadership role. Even though Suryakumar Yadav has just become a member of the distinguished group of World Cup-winning captains including Kapil Dev, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni, the nature of professional sports indicates that the transition could be nearer than it looks.
Suryakumar, currently 35, has eyes on the 2028 LA Olympics, but by then he will be 37. With the next T20 World Cup also scheduled for that year, the BCCI and its selection committee could well be weighing a succession plan. Enter Sanju Samson. The 31-year-old opener is coming off a “golden run,” having smashed a hat-trick of half-centuries to finish with 321 runs and the Player of the Tournament trophy. Here are the three primary reasons why Samson is being backed to eventually take the reins.
Sanju Samson @IamSanjuSamson can lead India in Next T20 World Cup @MohammadKaif #worldcup pic.twitter.com/f37131rUQR
— Ravish Bisht (@ravishbofficial) March 10, 2026
1. Sharp Tactical Decision-Making
A captain’s true value lies in the nuances of the game—field placements, bowling changes, and man-management. Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif believes Samson possesses the worldly perspective required for the job.
“Tough to say right now as to who would become the next captain, but Samson could well be the one. I mean, why not? A Captain must be someone who has seen the world. Implementing bowling changes, playing the perfect XI, and backing players out of form… A captain would know that these things happen. They themselves have gone through this. They understand these little things,” Kaif told Ravish Bisht in an interview.
2. Extensive IPL Leadership Experience
Samson isn’t just a heavy run-scorer; he is a seasoned leader. His tenure with the Rajasthan Royals, whom he led to the IPL final in 2022, has provided him with years of experience handling international stars and high-pressure scenarios.
Kaif emphasized this point: “He has captained a lot in the IPL and took the Rajasthan Royals to the final. Someone who has captained remains forever valuable. If Surya decides to step down, Sanju can fill that position.” With Samson set to debut for the Chennai Super Kings in less than 20 days, his exposure to a new leadership culture could further refine his captaincy credentials.
3. Age and Longevity (The 31-Year-Old Advantage)
At 31, Samson offers the perfect bridge between the current veteran core and the next generation. Unlike Shubman Gill, whose T20I form has been inconsistent, Samson is currently at the peak of his powers.
“He is only 31. Might be the next Indian captain,” Kaif noted. This age profile allows the BCCI to groom him for the dual major events in 2028, ensuring India has a stable, experienced leader when the time comes for Suryakumar to move into a player-only role.
