Sanju Samson, after a record-breaking performance in the T20I series against Bangladesh, has set his sights on earning a place in India’s Test squad. The Kerala cricketer recently made headlines by scoring his maiden T20I century in just 40 balls, the second-fastest hundred by an Indian in the format. This explosive knock not only solidified his position as a top T20 batsman but also reignited his aspirations for red-ball cricket.
Samson’s ambitions for a Test call-up come after consistent performances in domestic cricket, including his participation in the Duleep Trophy earlier this year. In an interview with reporters, Samson revealed that the Indian team management had encouraged him to focus more on red-ball cricket and enhance his prospects for a Test debut.
Preparation for Red-Ball Cricket
The 29-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, who has been a mainstay for Kerala in domestic cricket, recently scored his 11th First-Class century in the Duleep Trophy, which he considers a crucial step towards his Test ambitions. “The leadership group asked me to take red-ball cricket seriously, and I’ve been preparing accordingly,” Samson said. “I believe I have the skills required to succeed in Test cricket, and I don’t want to restrict myself to limited-overs formats.”
Samson is expected to join Kerala’s Ranji Trophy squad for their second-round match against Karnataka in Bengaluru, starting Friday. He played four Ranji Trophy matches last season, scoring 176 runs, and is determined to improve his stats this season to keep himself in contention for a Test spot.
Role in Kerala’s Ranji Trophy Campaign
Kerala’s Ranji Trophy campaign began on a strong note, with an eight-wicket victory over Punjab in their opening match. The team, led by Sachin Baby, is bolstered by the inclusion of veteran spinners Jalaj Saxena, Aditya Sarvate, and all-rounder Baba Aparajith. Samson’s return is expected to further strengthen the side as they aim to reach the knockout stages this season.
Pacer Basil NP has also been called up to the Kerala squad, providing the team with additional firepower in their bowling attack. However, it is Samson’s experience and leadership in the middle order that will be crucial as Kerala looks to build momentum in the tournament.
Message from the Indian Team Management
Samson’s recent form, including his century in the Duleep Trophy, has made him a prime candidate for a Test call-up. According to him, the Indian team management has been in touch, expressing their interest in his development as a red-ball cricketer. “Before the Duleep Trophy, I had a conversation with the leadership group. They told me they were considering me for Test cricket and asked me to take it seriously,” Samson said. “The hundred I scored in the Duleep Trophy has boosted my confidence, especially since it came against some of the best bowlers in domestic cricket.”
Samson has been working on his game with Rahul Dravid and Zubin Bharucha at the Rajasthan Royals Academy, where he fine-tuned his technique for both white-ball and red-ball cricket. “Training with Dravid sir and Bharucha helped me immensely. I focused on improving my consistency and playing longer innings, which is crucial for Test cricket,” he added.
While Samson continues to impress in the shorter formats, his desire to don the Indian whites and play Test cricket remains his ultimate goal. With India’s current Test batting line-up undergoing transitions and opportunities likely to open up in the coming months, Samson’s performances in domestic cricket will be closely watched.
As he joins the Kerala Ranji Trophy squad, all eyes will be on Samson as he seeks to prove his worth and make a compelling case for inclusion in the Indian Test squad. With his explosive batting, technical prowess, and determination, Samson’s journey from T20 star to potential Test cricketer is one to watch in the coming months.
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