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As the countdown to the T20 World Cup 2026 reaches its final week, former India stalwart Suresh Raina has made a bold prediction regarding who could end the nation’s 16-year drought for a World Cup century. Since Raina’s own 101 against South Africa in 2010, no Indian has crossed the triple-figure mark in the tournament’s history.
Suresh Raina’s surprising pick for India’s T20 World Cup 2026 century scorer
Despite his recent struggles in the ongoing series against New Zealand, Raina has thrown his full support behind Sanju Samson. Speaking to News18 on January 29, 2026, Raina backed the Kerala wicket-keeper to join him in the exclusive club of World Cup centurions.
“Sanju Samson can be in that list. He opens the batting 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 make it. But somehow, I think Sanju can make a century in this T20 World Cup. I think 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, noting: “Look at Suryakumar Yadav. He hasn’t scored runs in almost one year. But still, the coach backed him. I think the same story is with Sanju. If he gets a chance, he will definitely do well.” Raina concluded.
Also READ: India’s leading wicket-taker in T20 World Cup 2026? Suresh Raina and Anil Kumble reveal their picks
India’s final dress rehearsal and T20 World Cup 2026 path
The fifth and final T20I against New Zealand on January 31 will be a homecoming for Samson at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. This match will serves as the final opportunity for Samson to repay Raina’s faith before India shifts focus to their official World Cup campaign.
India’s upcoming cricket matches and events
| Event | Date | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5th T20I vs NZ (Final Series Decider) | Jan 31 | Thiruvananthapuram | Samson’s home ground |
| Squad Assembly | Feb 3 | Mumbai | Tilak Varma and the full WC squad link up |
| T20 World Cup Opener | Feb 7 | Wankhede Stadium | India vs USA; The title defense begins |
| The ‘Big One’ | Feb 15 | Colombo | India vs Pakistan; The marquee Group A clash |
