‘I switch off the WiFi’: Sanju Samson opens up on dealing with criticism

Sanju Samson has a clever method for coping with criticism. He simply turns off the WiFi. "I try to switch off the WiFi," Samson quipped after scoring 57 runs off just 22 balls against Afghanistan. However, there was a candid truth behind his laughter. Even when the WiFi returns, it still impacts him. Samson admitted that he is aware of the comments made by others and what senior players say about him.

He acknowledged that it does hurt, but he explained that he is not an automaton. "We are not robots," Samson admitted, noting that initially, it feels terrible. Yet, through experience, he has learned how to handle it. Samson advised himself to remember his identity and what he must accomplish, because letting that external noise affect him while playing would hinder his performance on the field.

"If I paid attention to those things, I wouldn't be able to bat like this," he said, joking that otherwise, he would hesitate tenfold before attempting a shot, fearing the consequences of getting out and creating another "WiFi problem." Samson certainly did not shy away from challenging Afghanistan. After scores of 5, 0, 1, 27, and 10 in his previous five T20Is, he smashed an impressive 57 off 22 balls as India chased down 160 in just 14.5 overs, winning by seven wickets and clinching the series with one match left.

His batting performance showcased his potential, but his post-match comments also served as a reminder that players, despite their successes and failures, do experience the pressure and noise. Sometimes, they simply need to switch off the WiFi. However, the true strength lies in developing a mental fortitude to overcome such adversities.

Samson addressed the competition alongside Vaibhav Suryavanshi after India's victory against Afghanistan, while Suryakumar praised Samson's character and commended his selfless response when India's place was under threat.