The Rise and Challenges of Sanju Samson in International Cricket

Cricket in India is not just a sport; it's a religion that unites millions of passionate fans across the country. The upcoming ICC Men's World Cup is a highly anticipated event, and cricket enthusiasts are eagerly waiting to see their favorite players in action. One player who has been the center of attention is Sanju Samson, Kerala's only representative in international cricket. In this article, we will delve into the rise and challenges faced by Samson in his journey as a cricketer.

Samson's Early Promise
Sanju Samson burst onto the scene with his exceptional talent and promising performances in domestic cricket. Born on November 11, 1994, in Trivandrum, Kerala, Samson showed early signs of brilliance in the game. He made his debut for Kerala in 2011 at the age of 17 and quickly caught the attention of selectors and fans alike with his elegant stroke play and natural flair.

The Journey to International Cricket
Samson's consistent performances in domestic cricket earned him a spot in the Indian Premier League (IPL) team, Rajasthan Royals. Playing alongside some of the best players in the world, Samson showcased his potential and proved that he has what it takes to compete at the highest level. His performances in the IPL caught the eye of the national selectors, and he made his international debut for India in 2015.

The T20 Challenge
Samson's journey in international cricket has been a roller coaster ride, filled with ups and downs. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in the One Day International (ODI) format, his performances in T20 cricket have been inconsistent. Samson's Achilles heel seems to be the T20 format, where he has struggled to make an impact. In 19 T20 matches, he has an average of 18.82, with only one half-century to his name.

The ODI Redemption
Despite his struggles in T20 cricket, Samson has shown great promise in the ODI format. In the Third ODI against West Indies in 2022, he played a match-winning knock of 53 runs off just 41 balls. This innings showcased his ability to change the course of a game and his potential as a reliable batsman in the World Cup format. With an impressive average of 55.71 in ODIs, Samson has proven that he can perform at the highest level.

Challenges Faced by Samson
While Samson has shown glimpses of his talent, he has also faced several challenges in his international career. One of the major challenges is the constant shuffling of his batting position. Samson has been deployed in different slots, often as a finisher or a floater, instead of being given a consistent role in the top order. This lack of clarity has affected his rhythm and hindered his ability to perform at his optimal best.

Competition for World Cup Spots
In the highly competitive world of Indian cricket, there are several young talents knocking at the door of the national team. Samson's mediocre performances and inconsistency have given rise to competition from players like Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, and Yeshaswi Yadav. These players have shown great potential and have performed consistently in domestic and international cricket. As a result, Samson's chances of securing a spot in the World Cup squad are in jeopardy.

Unfair Treatment and Lack of Opportunities
Despite his impressive performances in domestic cricket and the IPL, Samson has often been overlooked by the team management. He has played in only 13 internationals for India since his debut in 2015, and his opportunities have been limited to when established players are rested. This lack of consistent chances has affected his confidence and hindered his growth as a player.

The Road Ahead
At 30 years of age, Samson is at a crucial juncture in his career. The upcoming T20 matches against West Indies hold great significance for him, as they could determine his participation in the Asian Cup and potentially pave the way for a spot in the World Cup squad. Samson needs to deliver standout performances and prove his worth to the selectors and team management.

Conclusion
Sanju Samson's journey in international cricket has been a tale of promise and challenges. While he has shown glimpses of his talent, he has struggled to establish himself as a consistent performer in the T20 format. However, his performances in the ODI format have been impressive, and he has the potential to be a reliable batsman-wicket keeper in the World Cup. Samson faces tough competition from other talented players, and his chances of making it to the World Cup squad hang in the balance. As he prepares for the crucial T20 matches, Samson must rise to the occasion and seize the opportunity to secure his place in the Indian cricket team.