Sanju Samson much-anticipated return to the Indian team in the final T20I against Afghanistan ended in disappointment, raising questions about his place in the World Cup squad. After two games on the bench, the talented wicketkeeper-batter was expected to make a statement, but instead, he delivered two zeroes: a golden duck to start and a forgettable performance in the Super Over.
This underwhelming display drew the ire of Indian fans, who expressed their frustration online. The first-ball dismissal of Sanju Samson, a mistimed pull shot, was especially deflating, considering the pressure on him to prove his worth in the lead-up to the World Cup.
This wasn’t the first time Sanju Samson stumbled on the international stage. Despite flashes of brilliance, like his maiden T20I century against South Africa, consistency has remained elusive. Questions loom about his ability to handle pressure and perform under the spotlight.
In contrast, Samson’s competitor for the wicketkeeper slot, Jitesh Sharma, who played in the first two T20Is, didn’t fare much better. While he contributed a useful cameo in the series opener, a duck in the second game did little to solidify his claim.
Sanju Shift shifts focus to IPL
With the Afghanistan series marking India’s final T20I outing before the World Cup, both batsmen missed the opportunity to impress the selectors. For Sanju Samson, the pressure now shifts to the upcoming IPL season, where he will hope to lead the Rajasthan Royals charge and rekindle his international aspirations.
The debate for the wicketkeeper’s spot in the World Cup team remains open. Jitesh’s limited experience might work against him, while Samson’s inconsistency continues to be a concern. The selectors face a tough decision, and Samson’s next performances, both in the IPL and domestic cricket, will be crucial in determining his fate for the coveted World Cup spot.
