as a countdown to t20 world cup 2026 Former India legend reaches his final weeks Suresh Raina has made a bold prediction about who can end the country’s 16-year drought for a World Cup century. Since Raina has 101 runs against himself South Africa In 2010, no Indian has crossed the triple-figure mark in the history of the tournament.
Suresh Raina’s surprising selection for India’s T20 World Cup 2026 century-scorer
Despite their recent struggles in the ongoing series against new zealandRaina has given his full support sanju samson. Speaking to News18 on January 29, 2026, Raina supported the inclusion of the Kerala wicketkeeper in the exclusive club of World Cup centurions.
“Sanju Samson can be in that list. He opens and has the ability. He has already scored a century in South Africa. Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan are also there. One of them can do that. But somehow, I think Sanju can score a century in this T20 World Cup. I think the form is temporary. Sanju has that class. He has done it over the years, whether he is playing for India or not.” Raina said.
Raina also drew a comparison between Samson and the current captain and said: “Look at Suryakumar Yadav. He hasn’t scored for almost a year. But still the coach supported him. I think it’s the same story with Sanju. If he gets a chance, he will definitely do well.” Raina concluded.
India’s final dress rehearsal and the road to T20 World Cup 2026
The fifth and final T20I against New Zealand on January 31 at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram will be a homecoming for Samson. The match will be Samson’s final opportunity to repay Raina’s faith before India focus on their official World Cup campaign.
India’s upcoming cricket matches and events
| events | date | Place | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5th T20 vs New Zealand (final series decider) | 31 January | Thiruvananthapuram | samson’s home ground |
| squad meeting | 3 February | Mumbai | Tilak Verma and the entire World Cup team joined together |
| t20 world cup opener | february 7 | Wankhede Stadium | India vs USA; Title defense begins |
| the big one’ | 15 February | Colombo | India vs Pakistan; Marquee Group A match |
