Why India Need Sanju Samson In ODIs?

image-lkjhymldSanju Samson has a stellar ODI record (ICC)

As the anticipation builds around the World Cup 2023, the debate on India's potential squad has intensified. The squad's composition becomes ever more crucial, as India seeks to clinch the elusive title, having fallen short in the semi-finals in both 2015 and 2019 tournaments.

With established players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja, and Mohammed Shami almost assured of their places, India's possible weak link lies in its vulnerable middle order.

With KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer on the mend from surgeries and deprived of enough game time, their form and fitness remain uncertain. This uncertainty brings the spotlight on a promising player, Sanju Samson, who could potentially reinforce India's middle order in ODIs. So, why should Samson be a part of India's ODI squad?


Here are 5 reasons why India needs Sanju Samson in ODIs

1. Impressive ODI Record

Samson's excellent ODI stats advocate for his inclusion in India’s squad. The Kerala-based cricketer has scored 330 runs in 11 innings at a stunning average of 66. Moreover, with a strike rate of 104.8, the right-hander has shown that he has the ability to stabilize the innings and get aggressive when necessary. His highest score of 86 not out against South Africa in Lucknow is proof of his brilliant technique and attacking batting. His performance in ODIs so far implies that he could effectively strengthen India's fragile middle-order.


2. Batting flexibility

Samson is not just a cricketer; he is a chess piece, capable of adapting to any role in the batting order. His career, dotted with instances of batting at different positions, testifies to his flexibility. The seasoned player's ability to modulate his game according to the team's requirements is evident from his IPL performance with a strike rate of 137.2, which adds immense value to the team. As a result, his inclusion in the Indian ODI squad will provide the team with an option to shuffle the batting order if and when required.


3. Wealth of experience

Samson brings with him an arsenal of experience. Having served in the domestic circuit for nearly 15 years, making his international and IPL debuts in 2015 and 2009 respectively, Samson understands the nuances of handling pressure on grand occasions. His experience across 28 international and 152 IPL games, alongside 115 List-A games with over 3000 runs, makes him a dependable player ready for grand events like the World Cup.



4. Wicket-keeping option

With Rahul's full recovery still uncertain, Samson stands out as a viable wicket-keeping option. Rishabh Pant's unlikelihood of playing leaves Ishan Kishan and Samson as the prime candidates for backup wicket-keeping. Yet, Kishan playing would require him to bat out of his usual position, which might not be a prudent move considering the proximity of the World Cup. Here, Samson could serve as an apt replacement, providing strength to the middle and lower-middle order and offering finishing touches to games.


5. Adept spin-player

Samson has showcased his skill against spin bowling consistently, particularly in the IPL where he has left fans in awe of his power-hitting ability. The Rajasthan Royals captain's capability to score boundaries effortlessly and rotate strikes efficiently is a valuable trait India would desire in its middle order during the middle-overs. Moreover, the 28-year-old’s ability to command and dictate play while batting at No. 4 or 5 position, adjusting as per the situation, makes him an ideal choice for the Indian ODI squad.