Sanju Samson: Indian wicketkeeper Sanju Samson’s choice to withdraw from domestic cricket has not only jeopardized his chances for the Champions Trophy but has also displeased the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Why Sanju Samson is not a part of the Champions Trophy squad?
A media report, recently published, has indicated that Samson has opted out of representing Kerala in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, a decision that the board finds unacceptable, emphasizing that participation in domestic cricket is vital for national team members.
This decision has also cost Samson his spot in the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) team. BCCI insiders have reiterated the significance of domestic cricket, recalling how players like Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer previously lost their central contracts due to similar absences.
Sources have also said to media, “Sanju spent considerable time in Dubai and did not provide a valid reason for skipping the Vijay Hazare Trophy, which has negatively impacted his selection prospects.”
In discussions regarding wicketkeepers for the Champions Trophy, Rishabh Pant, Dhruv Jurel, and Sanju Samson were considered. However, Samson’s lack of participation in domestic matches has put him at a disadvantage, with Dhruv Jurel and Rishabh Pant now seen as the leading candidates.
A national news agency report indicates that while Rishabh Pant remains the top choice, there is a competitive race for the second wicketkeeper position among Dhruv Jurel, Ishan Kishan, and Samson. Analysts suggest that by missing the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Sanju is likely to fall behind in this competition.
The board has made it clear that if Samson wishes to be considered for the wicketkeeper-batsman role ahead of the Champions Trophy, he must provide a valid explanation for his absence from domestic cricket. “To secure a place in the team, he must acknowledge the importance of domestic cricket,” stated board sources.