Sanju Samson’s chances of making it to India’s Champions Trophy squad are now in jeopardy. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) plans to investigate the wicketkeeper-batter’s absence from the Vijay Hazare Trophy for Kerala, raising questions about his future with the national team.
Samson’s Absence Raises Concerns
The BCCI’s investigation into Samson’s absence comes just ahead of the Champions Trophy selection, where the Kerala cricketer was expected to be named in the 15-member squad as a wicketkeeper. However, his absence from the prestigious domestic 50-over tournament has sparked concerns within the BCCI.
The timing of this scrutiny is crucial, as the BCCI recently made it mandatory for centrally contracted players to represent their state teams in domestic cricket if they wish to be considered for national selection.
BCCI’s Discontent with Samson’s Withdrawal
According to reports, BCCI selectors and senior officials were displeased with Samson’s decision to skip the Vijay Hazare Trophy. The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) had previously stated that Samson had made himself unavailable for a preparatory camp ahead of the tournament. The cricketer’s absence raised eyebrows, especially as the board had been vocal about the importance of domestic cricket.
The Times of India reported that the selectors have not received an explanation for his absence, with rumors suggesting that Samson spends a significant amount of time in Dubai. A BCCI source remarked, “The board and selectors were not given any reason why he missed the tournament. This is a matter of concern.”
A History of Controversy with KCA
This issue is not the first time that Samson’s relationship with the Kerala Cricket Association has been questioned. The cricketer’s involvement in domestic cricket has faced friction in the past, leading to doubts over his commitment to state-level cricket. While he participated in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy preceding the Vijay Hazare Trophy, missing the 50-over competition has raised serious concerns.
The source further explained, “The selectors want a valid reason for his absence. Otherwise, it will be difficult to consider him for the upcoming ODI season. It’s important that his issues with the KCA are sorted out if he’s to continue playing in domestic cricket.”
Impact on Champions Trophy Selection
Samson is currently in contention for one of the two wicketkeeper spots in India’s squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy, which is set to take place later this year. Alongside Samson, players like KL Rahul, Dhruv Jurel, and Rishabh Pant are also vying for the role.
While Samson’s absence from the Vijay Hazare Trophy does not immediately rule him out, the BCCI’s investigation into his unavailability raises doubts about his place in the national squad for the tournament.
BCCI’s New Mandate on Domestic Cricket
The BCCI’s latest policy mandates that all centrally contracted players must play in domestic cricket to be eligible for national selection. Failure to adhere to this rule could lead to disciplinary action, which could include exclusion from the national team. Samson, therefore, faces mounting pressure to clarify his absence and demonstrate his commitment to the domestic cricket circuit.
Conclusion
With the Champions Trophy selection looming, Sanju Samson’s chances of making the squad now depend on the outcome of the BCCI’s investigation. His failure to provide a satisfactory explanation for his absence from the Vijay Hazare Trophy could severely impact his career prospects. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen whether Samson can resolve his differences with the Kerala Cricket Association and secure his spot in India’s upcoming ODI and Champions Trophy campaigns.
Stay updated with Channel 6 Network for further developments on this story and its implications for the Indian cricket team.
