Srikkanth calls Samson the “most unlucky” player
Former India captain and ex-chairman of selectors Kris Srikkanth has once again criticized the way the Indian team management treats wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth said Samson is the “most unlucky” player in the current team setup.
Samson forced to move down the order
Samson had performed well as an opener, scoring three centuries in the last year.
However, after Shubman Gill returned to the T20 side for the Asia Cup, Samson was moved to the middle order.
This change disrupted his rhythm and limited his opportunities to play freely.
Srikkanth said, “The guy who’s most unlucky is Sanju Samson. He was scoring centuries as an opener. But now they send him everywhere — from No. 3 to No. 8. If given a chance, they might even send him at No. 11! A person like Sanju will naturally feel bad after doing so well at the top, but he has no choice except to stay quiet and bat wherever the team asks him to.”
Struggles and signs of adjustment
During the Asia Cup, which India won without losing a single game, Samson batted at No. 5 in three matches and didn’t get to bat in one.
Although he struggled for rhythm in the middle order, conditions in the UAE made aggressive batting difficult for most players.
Despite that, the management continued to back him as India’s first-choice wicketkeeper for the Australia tour.
A chance to prove himself again
Srikkanth believes Samson’s ability to adapt will help him stay in the team.
He said, “The only good thing is that he did well at No. 5 in the Asia Cup. It’s a positive sign because Sanju is now the automatic choice as the first wicketkeeper for the T20 World Cup.”
What lies ahead for Samson
Some experts have suggested Jitesh Sharma as an alternative option.
However, Samson’s experience and calm approach make him a key player for India as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
If he continues to adjust and perform, he could finally cement his spot in the Indian lineup.
Nithin Rosh