In a perfectly timed statement of intent, Sanju Samson has thrown his name firmly back into the hat for India's ODI squad selection. With the national selection committee set to meet on Saturday, the Kerala batsman delivered a commanding century against Jharkhand in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, showcasing his form at the most opportune moment.
A Fluent Knock Under Pressure
Chasing a challenging target of 312, Samson led from the front with a composed and fluent hundred. He anchored a massive opening partnership of 212 runs with his captain, Rohan Kunnummal, who himself played a destructive innings of 124, laced with eight fours and eleven sixes. Samson's innings was a masterclass in pacing, filled with clarity and intent—precisely the kind of performance that catches the selectors' eye on the eve of a crucial meeting.
The Numbers Game: Samson's Strong ODI Case
This innings holds special significance for the 29-year-old. Samson last played an ODI for India in 2023. Despite scoring a memorable century against South Africa on their home soil, he has remained on the fringes of the team. His ODI statistics, however, present a compelling argument. In 16 matches, Samson has accumulated 510 runs from 14 innings at a stellar average of 56.67 and a strike rate of 99.61. Few contenders in the current landscape can boast such consistent numbers in the 50-over format.
In contrast, it was a quiet outing for his direct competitor, Ishan Kishan, in the same match. Kishan, who recently forced his way back into India's T20 World Cup plans, managed only 21 runs off 21 balls before being dismissed. Nonetheless, Kishan's overall ODI record—933 runs in 27 matches at an average of 42.41 and a strike rate of 102—keeps him firmly in contention.
A Three-Way Battle for the Wicketkeeper's Spot
The competition for the secondary wicketkeeping role behind the established first-choice, KL Rahul, is heating up. Adding another layer to this intriguing contest was Rishabh Pant, who reminded everyone of his explosive white-ball capabilities. Playing for Delhi against Services, Pant remained unbeaten on a brisk 72 off just 45 balls, ensuring a comfortable chase and underlining his prowess as a finisher under pressure.
With Sanju Samson's authoritative century, Rishabh Pant's match-winning knock, and Ishan Kishan's proven track record, the national selectors have a pleasant headache. The presence of a promising talent like Dhruv Jurel waiting in the wings only deepens the pool of options. The decision for the second wicketkeeper's slot in the ODI squad is now wide open, setting the stage for a fascinating selection.
