Image: Sanju Samson's exclusion from the Champions Trophy squad has stirred controversy / © Firstpost
After missing the Kerala preparatory camp for the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25, Sanju Samson was dropped by the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA). This decision impacted his chances for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, with Rishabh Pant being preferred. Samson, who had been in excellent form during the Bangladesh series and South Africa tour, faced criticism despite his performance.
Samson’s father, Vishwanath, accused the KCA of bias, stating that other players who skipped the camp were not penalized. He alleged that certain individuals within the KCA held a grudge against Samson, leading to unfair treatment. Despite this, he demanded only a fair opportunity for his son to showcase his skills. He said:
There are certain individuals within the KCA who seem to have an issue with my son. We’ve always kept quiet about such matters, but this time it’s gone too far. Sanju wasn’t the only player who missed the camp, yet others in the same situation were still given the chance to play.
KCA officials clarified their position, but the controversy has fueled debates among fans and experts. Samson is set to return in the upcoming T20I series against England, where he is expected to open the batting alongside Abhishek Sharma. Samson, the Player of the Series in India’s South Africa tour, will aim to replicate his recent successes.
The exclusion of Samson, who boasts an impressive domestic and international record, has raised questions about India’s selection process ahead of the Champions Trophy.