Sanju Samson is one of the prominent wicketkeepers at present who is going to play a crucial role for the Indian team in major tournaments like the Asia Cup and World Cup 2023. But seeing his performance in the ongoing series against West Indies only brings disappointments.
The injuries suffered by two pivotal middle-order players, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer, have caused a disruption in the strategies laid out by Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma. This situation compelled them to explore the talents of some lesser-known players in the recent series against the West Indies. Notably, Sanju Samson showcased his prowess by crafting an impressive fifty during the third One Day International (ODI) against the West Indies.
Samson’s performance in ODI cricket has been notable, reflecting his competence. Across 12 innings in ODIs, he maintains a commendable average of 55, having secured three half-centuries.
However, senior India off-spinner Ashwin explained in his YouTube video why Sanju Samson is unlikely to be picked in India’s best XI in the Asia Cup and in the World Cup.
“When it comes to Team India, the number 3 and 4 slot is not open. Given Sanju’s ability and talent, we know he can change the course of he game at any point. He is a very good guy and we all want good for him. But the role we expect from Sanju when it comes to Team India is different. There is no space for him in the Top 4. Whether there will be a spot for him after the World Cup or after one or two years after the World Cup, we will have to wait and watch,” Ashwin said.
“Because Virat at 3 is a fix. Rohit and Gill are also fixed as openers. Shreyas and KL are also absolute certainties when they are fit. We need a keeper-batter alone as a backup. So, if one of KL or Shreyas is not available they need a backup at 4 or 5. But Sanju is not doing that role in IPL. He is starting to do that role only in ODIs and he has scored a 50 in that role now. That’s good news for him and Team India. I feel Sanju Samson will be ahead in the contingency plan as far as the ODI World Cup is concerned and Tilak Varma is almost there,” Ashwin concluded.
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