As the Indian team arrived in Kerala for the fifth T20I against New Zealand, a playful exchange between captain Suryakumar Yadav and local hero Sanju Samson caught the attention of fans and media alike. In a video shared by the BCCI, Suryakumar is seen teasing Samson upon their arrival in his hometown, saying, "Get out of the way,". This lighthearted banter comes amidst a period of fluctuating form for Suryakumar and heightened scrutiny of Samson's place in the national team.

Suryakumar Yadav, who has been a mainstay in India's T20I setup, is currently experiencing a dip in form. After a stellar 2024 season, where he established himself as one of the most dangerous T20 batsmen in the world, his recent performances have been below par. This has led to questions about his consistency and ability to lead the team effectively, especially with the T20 World Cup looming.

Sanju Samson, on the other hand, has been a perennial topic of discussion among Indian cricket fans. Despite his undeniable talent and potential, he has struggled to cement his place in the national side. Known for his aggressive batting style and exceptional wicket-keeping skills, Samson has often been in and out of the team, leaving fans frustrated with the lack of consistent opportunities.

In January 2025, Suryakumar backed Samson to continue as wicketkeeper and open the batting. He said that Samson had performed well over the last several games and showed what he is capable of. In November 2024, Samson revealed that Suryakumar had motivated him ahead of the series against Bangladesh and assured him that he would open for India in the next seven matches.

The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) president Jayesh George criticized Samson in January 2025, stating that he could not turn up for Kerala whenever he felt like it.

Despite the pressures and external noise, the camaraderie between Suryakumar and Samson remains strong. Their recent interaction in Kerala is a testament to their bond and mutual respect. It also highlights the positive atmosphere within the Indian team, where players can share light moments even amidst intense competition.

As India prepares for the fifth T20I against New Zealand, both Suryakumar and Samson will be eager to make an impact. Suryakumar will look to regain his form and lead the team from the front, while Samson will aim to seize the opportunity and solidify his place in the squad. For the passionate cricket fans in Kerala, watching their local hero share the field with the Indian captain will be a special moment, regardless of individual performances. The match presents a chance for both players to silence their critics and contribute to India's success on the international stage.