Making it into the squad of the Indian Cricket team is one thing especially in the current times but to become a mainstay during critical junctures such as the ongoing T20 World Cup is something quite
different. A challenge of sorts, truth be told, if you are someone like Sanju Samson. The right hander from Kerala continues to remain an enigmatic mystery. Talented and much liked, so capable and yet to inconsistent.
So much so that in the current annals of Indian cricket, despite being around for close to a decade or so, the big hitting batter loved for his timing isn’t yet a mainstay of the side. So what can work in Samson’s favour at the moment? Given India need someone like him?
Tough Competition makes way tough players to strike big
India has many strong wicketkeeper-batters. Players like Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan, and KL Rahul are also fighting for the same spot. But then having someone who has had a known record of playing so well in indian conditions gives Sanju that extra bit of edge to find a spot in the side. With so many options available, selectors may not give too many chances to one player. The onus is on Samson know with the knowledge that Kishan failed to fire in the opening game vs USA and that there’s no Abhishek Sharma at the moment. Therefore, it’s a good enough chance to make a fighting comeback into the side and seal his spot.
Time for Sanju to settle the situation on his lack of runs.
New Talents waiting on sidelines
Sanju Samson is very talented and has done well in the IPL. But in T20 internationals, he has not been consistent.
He often gets good starts but fails to turn them into big scores. In T20 cricket, even one big knock can change a match. Selectors usually prefer players who perform regularly, not just occasionally.
If he cannot deliver strong performances in this phase, it may be hard for him to stay in the team. But at the same time, the World Cup is just the kind of tournament in which he can concert a poor recent run of form into a good solid score especially given some weak sides India are to play against in its imminent future.
Gautam Gambhir and Surya eyeing for future and form
Team India’s T20 team, at least in the present times, focuses on players with clear roles — power-hitters at the top, strong middle-order batters, and reliable finishers.
Tilak Verma back in action
Younger players are also coming through with aggressive batting styles. If Samson cannot clearly fit into one of these roles, selectors might choose someone who better suits their long-term plans. Since the time Tilak Verma has returned from injury, he has been producing runs like a bloke.
Sanju Samson has the skill and ability. But in Indian cricket, chances are limited and competition is very high. This could be an important moment in his T20I career. If he performs well now, he can secure his place. If not, it may become difficult for him to get more opportunities
