Sanju Samson’s Struggles Explained: The Problem Lies in His Footwork

Sanju Samson’s Struggles Explained: The Problem Lies in His Footwork

Sanju Samson is once again facing intense scrutiny. Widely regarded as one of India’s most elegant stroke-players, the wicketkeeper-batter has struggled to translate his immense talent into consistent performances in recent matches. While dips in form are part of every cricketer’s journey, experts believe Samson’s current slump is not merely psychological — it is technical, and the root cause lies in his footwork.

---

Talent and Expectations: A Double-Edged Sword

Over the years, Samson has built a reputation as a fearless batter capable of dismantling any bowling attack. His clean hitting, range of strokes, and ability to accelerate innings make him a valuable asset in white-ball cricket.

However, recent innings have followed a worrying pattern — promising starts followed by premature dismissals. With rising competition for middle-order and wicketkeeping slots, his inconsistency has amplified selection pressure, especially in the T20 format where impact matters instantly.

---

Technical Lens: Experts Highlight the Core Flaw

Several former cricketers have zeroed in on Samson’s technique. The most repeated observation — minimal foot movement at the crease. Instead of adjusting to line and length, Samson often appears static while playing his shots.

This lack of decisive movement affects both attack and defense. Without getting close to the pitch of the ball, he ends up reaching for deliveries, increasing the chances of mistimed strokes and edges.

---

Vulnerability Against Spin

Samson’s footwork issues become more pronounced against spinners. Rather than stepping out confidently or going deep in the crease with balance, he sometimes creates room without proper body alignment.

This exposes his stumps and limits shot control. Bowlers have exploited this by targeting straighter lines, leading to bowled dismissals or LBW threats. In modern T20 cricket, where spinners control the middle overs, this weakness becomes a significant liability.

---

The Back-Foot Trigger Problem

Another technical concern is Samson’s pre-delivery movement. Observers have noted a tendency to shift slightly backward even before the ball is released.

While such triggers can help finishers create room in death overs, using it consistently in the top or middle order restricts shot options. It reduces his ability to come forward to fuller deliveries, often forcing him into cramped back-foot strokes.

---

Indecision Reflecting in Movement

Footwork is as much mental as physical. Samson’s crease movements sometimes indicate indecision — caught between attacking intent and cautious play.

Instead of reacting to the ball, his movements can appear pre-planned. This predictability allows bowlers to set traps, especially with fuller lengths and straight deliveries, areas where he has been dismissed repeatedly.

---

Performance Numbers Tell the Story

Statistics mirror the technical concerns. Over recent international appearances, Samson’s run tally and averages have dipped compared to his earlier peak phases.

For a batter known for explosive knocks and big scores, the inability to convert starts into substantial innings highlights how technical inefficiencies can impact overall output.

---

The Path to Revival

Despite the criticism, confidence in Samson’s ability remains strong. His natural timing, power-hitting range, and match-winning record continue to work in his favor.

What he needs now is technical recalibration — more decisive front-foot commitment, improved balance while creating room, and reduced premeditated movement. Small corrections in his base and foot positioning could restore his dominance.

For Sanju Samson, the comeback blueprint is clear. The talent is intact — it’s his feet that must rediscover their rhythm.