Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has sharply criticized the national selectors for what he calls a “wrong” decision in excluding dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson from India’s One-Day International (ODI) squad for the upcoming tour of Australia.
Kaif, a respected voice in Indian cricket, believes Samson is a significantly better fit for the crucial lower-middle order, specifically the number 5 or 6 positions, compared to the young Dhruv Jurel, who earned a spot in the 15-member squad.
Cricket fans debate: Dhruv Jurel or Sanju Samson for India’s ODI squad? (Getty Images)
“While Dhruv Jurel undoubtedly impressed with his century in the recent Test series against the West Indies, showing great composure and organization, and he is certainly a promising talent for the future, the decision to leave out Sanju Samson for the ODI format is simply incorrect,” Kaif asserted on his YouTube channel. He emphasized that Samson’s natural role is in the lower order, where his specific skillset shines.
The veteran cricketer highlighted Samson’s proven ability to hit sixes and his valuable experience playing in Australian conditions as key factors. “In those vital number 5 or 6 spots, you absolutely need someone who can effortlessly clear the ropes, particularly against spinners. We witnessed Sanju Samson’s explosive power during the Asia Cup. Had he been in Australia, he would have been smashing Adam Zampa for maximums,” Kaif explained. “He’s consistently ranked among the top ten for most sixes in the IPL, making him an ideal choice for the demands of Australian pitches.”
Kaif also cautioned against an over-reliance on recent form, arguing that it can lead to overlooking deserving players with a track record. “Currently, there’s a tendency to solely focus on immediate performances, like Jurel’s recent Test success. In doing so, we risk forgetting consistent and deserving performers like Sanju,” he stated.
The India-Australia ODI series is scheduled to commence on October 19 in Perth, with a five-match T20I series to follow from October 29. While Jurel is set to make his ODI debut, and KL Rahul is expected to take on wicketkeeping duties, Samson will join the squad only for the T20I leg.