News Mania desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/4th May 2024
30th April marked a pivotal moment in Sanju Samson’s career as he earned a spot in India’s T20 World Cup squad as a wicketkeeper, alongside Rishabh Pant. This selection is particularly significant for Samson as it marks his first inclusion in any World Cup squad, signifying a culmination of his talent and dedication over the years.
Samson’s journey to international recognition has been characterized by glimpses of brilliance, yet he often found himself on the periphery of the Indian team. Despite playing 24 T20Is since 2020, more than stalwarts like Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja, Samson was seldom the first-choice player. He frequently served as an injury replacement or featured in second-string squads, denying him consistent opportunities to showcase his abilities.
Furthermore, Samson’s performances in the IPL mirrored this inconsistency. While he would start seasons with impressive displays, his form often tapered off as the tournament progressed. Additionally, the competition for his position intensified, with players like KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, and emerging talents like Jitesh Sharma vying for selection.
However, IPL 2024 has been a turning point for Samson, where he has led Rajasthan Royals admirably and delivered consistently with the bat. His tally of 385 runs in nine matches at an average of 77.00 and a strike rate of 161.08 is testament to his improved form and maturity as a player.
Crucially, Samson’s success this season can be attributed to a shift in approach. He has prioritized stability over early aggression, trading some of his attacking intent for assuredness at the crease. By being more selective in his shot selection, particularly in the initial overs, Samson has extended his stay at the crease and exerted greater control over his innings.
This methodical approach has not only benefited Samson individually but has also been instrumental in Rajasthan Royals’ success. On numerous occasions, he has anchored the team’s innings after early setbacks, guiding them to formidable totals.
While Samson’s performance at No. 3 in the IPL has been exceptional, his role in the upcoming T20 World Cup may present challenges. Given India’s likely batting order, Samson may find himself batting lower down the order, where Pant’s left-handed batting style could offer a strategic advantage.
Nevertheless, Samson’s proficiency in the middle overs and versatility against both pace and spin augur well for his international prospects. His ability to dominate in the middle phase of the innings, coupled with his adaptability to different bowling styles, makes him a valuable asset for the Indian team.
As Samson continues to excel on the domestic stage, his immediate focus remains on guiding Rajasthan Royals to playoff success. With the team performing admirably under his leadership, Samson’s contributions are vital as they aim for further milestones in the tournament.
