IND VS WI 2023: After a long time,Sanju Samson has earned a recall to the Indian ODI side for the 3-match series vs West Indies, starting July 27.He comes in as a replacement for KL Rahul, who has been out with an injury since May 2023
Samson last represented India in ODIs in November last year, in a three-match ODI series against New Zealand.However, even in that series, Samson played just one game before he was benched.
Sanju Samson in international cricket:
Inconsistent opportunities have long played a part in Samson's career,since making his international debut in 2015.He has play in just 11 ODI , despite boasting of a staggering average of 66 with the bat.In T20 Samson has just 17 games under his belt.
Samson has had consistent runs with the bat but there's certainly no dearth of potential in the Kerala batter.The better, in this last tour of West Indies, scored 72 runs in 3 matches , which included one half century.In the South Africa ODI series at home, Sanju Samson had smashed 86 of 63 balls albeit in a losing cause.The Rajasthan royals skipper had an ordinary season in the IPL scoring 362 runs in 14 matches at an average of 30.16.
Samson missed the ODI series vs Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Australia this year after suffering knee injury.But now,he has again back in team india to show his potential.
Samson is one of the two wicket keepers India named in their 17 member ODI squad, beside Ishan Kishan.While Ishan might get the nod as India's first choice wicket keeper, Sanju can also play as a specialist batter.
Given the ODI World Cup is less than 100 days away, Sanju will be aware that India is yet to zero in on a No. 4.With Rishabh pant and KL Rahul sidelined owing to injuries ,the chance is ripe for Samson to make an impact.
Former Indian cricketer Ravi Shastri said that
, there is Sanju who I believe is yet to realise his potential. he is a match winner. there is something that is missing. I will be disappointed if he does not finish is career all guns blazing.
Sunil Gavaskar said that,
it is very good to see Sanju in the one day team because this is again a huge talent and maybe he could have been in the test team as well.
Irfan Pathan said that,
given rishabh pants ongoing recovery, it is time to give Sanju Samson one extended opportunity in one day cricket. With his skills as a proficient middle order wicketkeeper batsman and excellent spin playing abilities, he could prove to be a valuable addition.
Sanju batted very well last year. It is a good opportunity for Sanju Samson now,that players like Rahul or Pant are out of the team due to injury.Sanju is an amazing player and his technique is also amazing. But he has to keep in mind that this technique should not be just a technique but should be changed into a run.
