The ongoing Men's T20 World Cup has produced several memorable performances for India, but one of the most eye-catching has been the resurgence of Sanju Samson. Samson has emerged as a match-winner for India at a crucial stage of the tournament. The wicketkeeper-batter, who earlier struggled to cement a permanent place in the Indian side, has been a match-winner for the side over the past two games in the ongoing T20 World Cup. The wicketkeeper-batter delivered back-to-back Player of the Match performances that helped India secure a place in the final of the tournament against New Zealand. His most impressive contribution came in the semi-final against England in Mumbai on Thursday, where he produced a breathtaking innings of 89 runs. Giving his take on Sanju's performance, former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes that the primary reason behind Samson’s recent success lies not only in his talent but also in his mental strength at the crease. 

“I think finally realising and coming to terms with the fact that he needs to be more consistent. He’s got to be wiser with his shot selection, and he’s got to back his strengths," Shastri said on the ICC.

“The thing with Sanju is he’s got every shot in the book, but lapses in concentration. I think he’s toughened up mentally, and there’s never anyone who’s doubted his skill or talent ever since he made the side. What people have been disappointed is that the run of consistency that should have been there by now isn’t there, but he’s come of age now,” Shastri said.

On the other hand, explosive batter Abhishek Sharma has struggled to get going, enduring poor form. However, Shastri feels that India should continue with the youngster. 

“I think they’ve just got to stick with him now. Don’t make any changes as the side’s having a good run. Stick with that and just tell him believe in your ability, believe in your strengths and back your strengths, don’t go into a shell where you’re tentative or you’re timid."

“We back you, you back your strengths and go out there and play. The last game might be the best game for you," he said.