\u201cTalking about the T20 World Cup 2024, I didn\u2019t play a game. Things were up and down, to be very honest, and I was not matching the expectations I had set for myself. But I was grateful that I made it to the fifteen,\u201d Samson said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Reflecting on the journey so far, the Kerala batter said his career has been marked by unpredictability, especially in the shortest format. \u201cMy journey is very special. You never know when you will get the opportunity to play. In this format, ups and downs keep happening,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Samson also spoke about dealing with external pressure while playing for the national team. \u201cIt\u2019s hard to ignore outside noise when you\u2019re playing for India. I created my own bubble and kept focusing on the little things. I knew my time would come,\u201d he added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The wicketkeeper-batter said the unexpected opportunity to open the innings proved to be a turning point in his career. \u201cWith God\u2019s grace, it happened out of nowhere. I came into the World Cup side as a middle-order batter, but an opening slot opened up. I got the opportunity to bat in around 10 or 11 innings, and I did something special, which brought me into the Indian opening role,\u201d Samson said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Addressing the stop-start nature of his international appearances, Samson said continued belief in getting the chance kept him motivated. \u201cPeople say I didn\u2019t get a long run, but I see that as a positive sign. After 10 years of international cricket, I still feel very special wearing this jersey. That feeling keeps me going,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Samson also spoke about his fearless batting approach in T20Is, saying it aligns naturally with the format\u2019s demands. \u201cThis format demands fearlessness and not thinking too much about mistakes. Luckily, that comes naturally to me,\u201d he noted.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Addressing the stop-start nature of his international appearances, Samson said continued belief in getting the chance kept him motivated. \u201cPeople say I didn\u2019t get a long run, but I see that as a positive sign. After 10 years of international cricket, I still feel very special wearing this jersey. That feeling keeps me going,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Samson will be in action later on Wednesday when he opens the innings for India in the first match of the five-match T20I series against New Zealand.<\/p>\r\n\r\n