Last Updated on 8 months by Charbel Coorey
Cricket News: Fans call for Sanju Samson to feature in India’s T20 World Cup team later this year
Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has enjoyed another strong start to an IPL season. The keeper-batsman struck his fifth 50+ score in a row in the opening game of a new year, clubbing 82* off 52 balls against Lucknow Super Giants at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.
Samson’s innings sent a reminder of his talent. He has been in and out of India’s white-ball setup over the years, and fans have called for him to have an extended run in the team.
India certainly have a call to make as to which player will don the gloves in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup. There are a number of options available including KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant, with the latter making a promising return to action on Saturday.
It is a decision the Indians will want to get right as they look to end their ICC trophy drought which dates back to 2013.
Should Sanju Samson be in India’s T20 World Cup squad?
Those critical of Samson point to his consistency. He often starts an IPL campaign really well but can then fade away. However, the impact he provides with the bat, especially against spin, can provide a point of difference in the view of some India fans.
However, other fans point to Samson’s consistency. He has started each of the last five IPL seasons in magnificent fashion, but then usually finds the going a little tougher.
In 2020, Samson struck 74 (32) in the opening game followed by 119 (63) in 2021. He then scored 55 in both 2022 and 2023, with his 82* against LSG the latest brilliant start.
Rajasthan Royals went on to win their opening game against Lucknow Super Giants by 20 runs. Samson won the player of the match award for his excellent knock that drove the Royals to 193.
As captain, Samson then rotated his bowlers well with Sandeep Sharma in particular delivering in spades as KL Rahul and Nicholas Pooran looked set to hunt the target down with four overs to go.
RR’s next match is against Delhi Capitals on Thursday at Jaipur.
