Team India head coach Rahul Dravid has broken his silence on reports alleging a fallout with wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson. Speaking to the media ahead of India’s upcoming T20I series, Dravid dismissed the rumors as “totally baseless” and expressed disappointment over speculative journalism.
“Honestly, I can’t do anything about baseless stuff that keeps coming up. There is absolutely no issue between me and Sanju. These are fabricated stories with no foundation,” Dravid stated firmly.
No Rift Within the Team
The controversy began after a few unverified media reports claimed that Dravid had reservations about Samson’s place in the playing XI. The reports further suggested that the communication between the two had deteriorated over recent months.
However, Dravid has made it clear that the Indian team management believes in open dialogue and transparency. “We work closely with all players. Whether it’s Sanju or anyone else, decisions are made purely based on team requirements and performance metrics,” he clarified.
Support from the Dressing Room
Samson, currently part of India’s T20 squad, has shown good form in recent domestic and international outings. His interactions with the coaching staff and teammates reportedly remain professional and positive. Sources within the team say that the atmosphere in the dressing room is “harmonious and focused,” with no signs of conflict.
Former cricketers and analysts have also come out in support of both Dravid and Samson, urging the media to avoid speculation that could derail team morale during a crucial cricketing season.
The Larger Message
Dravid, known for his calm demeanor and emphasis on discipline, also used the opportunity to caution against the spread of misinformation. “We are here to play cricket and bring results for the country. Gossip like this distracts the team and affects players unnecessarily,” he said.
He added that such stories often gain traction on social media without any factual basis, and he encouraged fans to rely on verified information from official sources.
Final Word
The clarification from Dravid should put an end to the rumors surrounding his relationship with Sanju Samson. With several high-stakes matches lined up ahead of the T20 World Cup, the team is focused on preparation and unity.
