India, March 7 -- The latter phase of the ongoing 2026 T20 World Cup is turning out to be a story of redemption for Sanju Samson. The Indian opener didn't start India's campaign, and was included in the playing XI during the Super 8 stage. He justified the decision by registering scores of 97* not out against the West Indies and then a match-winning 89 vs England in the semifinal. Commenting on Samson's return to the playing XI, India captain Suryakumar Yadav hailed the batter and pointed out that 'he is reaping the benefits of his hard work'.

He was in poor form in the bilateral series against New Zealand before the tournament, which led to him getting dropped. He didn't start in the group stage, except for the game against Namibia afte...