The inclusion of Shubman Gill in India’s Asia Cup squad has sparked debates about selection pressure, yet those close to Sanju Samson believe the current version of the wicketkeeper-batter is far removed from the days when he worried about outside judgement.
Samson recently produced a majestic century for the Kochi Blue Tigers, followed by a blistering 89 off just 46 balls in the Kerala Cricket League. Despite battling fever and making hospital visits, his fearless batting thrilled fans who packed the Greenfield Stadium to watch him in action.
His childhood coach George, who first spotted Samson as a prodigy at 11 in Pulluvila, now sees a transformed player. “Sanju is no longer a rookie trying to prove himself. He’s moved beyond that phase,” George remarked.
Over the last decade, Samson’s career has swung between moments of brilliance and stretches of being overlooked, often leaving him on the fringes of India’s squads across formats. His immense talent was acknowledged but rarely given consistent opportunities to unfold fully.
The conversation with George came soon after India’s Asia Cup squad was unveiled, a selection that raised questions about whether Samson might again face a setback, even after delivering his most productive season for the national team. But his coaches remain confident that Samson 2.0 is better equipped mentally and technically to deal with the competition and prove his worth.