Sanju Samson’s struggle to cement his place in the Indian cricket team continued in the second ODI against South Africa, raising concerns about his consistency and technique. After missing out on the World Cup squad and enduring a lukewarm West Indies tour, Samson’s return offered a flickering hope, but ultimately fizzled out in Gqeberha.
His dismissal, managing only 12 runs off 23 balls, mirrored a familiar pattern that drew scrutiny from former cricketer and commentator Simon Doull. Doull highlighted Samson’s tendency to shuffle away from his body and nick the ball onto his stumps, a tactic that while effective in less demanding conditions, proved perilous on the South African pitch offering significant movement.
“He’s had opportunities, back to back games, and finds ways to get out when he shouldn’t,” Simon Doull remarked. “That shuffle away, it works on Indian surfaces, but here, it’s fraught with danger. He wants that wand outside off-stump too often, and that’s what frustrates people.”
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With wicketkeepers KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan delivering impressive performances, the pressure on Samson’s position intensifies. His limited experience, with only 15 ODIs and 24 T20Is for India, adds to the uncertainty. While his T20I average hovers below par at 19.41, his ODI record shows promise, boasting an average of 50.25 and a strike rate of 101. This potential, however, remains tantalizingly out of reach, eclipsed by recurring dismissals that hinder his consistency.
The question then arises, can Samson break free from this frustrating pattern? Addressing his technical flaws, specifically the vulnerability exposed by the “shuffle away” approach, is crucial. He needs to adapt to more challenging playing conditions while still displaying the attacking flair that earned him the moniker ‘Samsonite.’
Furthermore, seizing whatever opportunity comes his way is vital. The upcoming IPL season presents a crucial stage for him to showcase his talent and reclaim his confidence. Converting glimpses of brilliance into sustained performances will be key to silencing the growing doubts and securing his place in the Indian lineup.
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Sanju Samson’s journey is far from over. This stumbling return may be a wake-up call, an opportunity for introspection and refinement. Whether he can overcome these hurdles and emerge as a dependable force in the Indian team remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: his potential is undeniable, and his journey will be captivating to watch unfold.
