‘There is something that is missing’ – Ravi Shastri’s bold statement on India batter ahead of West Indies series
Ravi Shastri (Source: Twitter)
Since Sanju Samson’s debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) back in 2013 for Rajasthan Royals (RR), he has been considered to be one of the finest players in the shortest format of the game. He has the potential to be the backbone of India’s batting in limited overs, as he has the required potential and skill set.
Samson now captains RR in the IPL, and he got a few chances to play for the Men in Blue in both T20Is and ODIs, although he has not been able to get himself a prolonged run in the team. He has so far played 11 ODIs and 17 T20Is for India. While talking about the 28-year-old on The Week, former India head coach, Ravi Shastri compared him to Rohit Sharma‘s Test career during his time and stated that Samson is yet to realise his potential and there is something missing in him.
I will be disappointed if he does not finish his career all guns blazing: Ravi Shastri
“There is Sanju [Samson], who I believe he is yet to realize his potential. He is a match-winner. There is something that is missing. I will be disappointed if he does not finish his career all guns blazing. It is like when I was the coach, I would have been disappointed if Rohit Sharma had not played in my side as a regular Test player. Hence, his opening the batting. I feel similar to Sanju,” Shastri was quoted as saying on The Week.
Samson has a fantastic chance to secure his position in the World Cup team with the West Indies series. Rishabh Pant is unlikely to return anytime soon and KL Rahul is still recovering from his injury. Samson has returned to the squad and may now add to his career of 11 matches, in which he scored 330 runs at an average of 66. With Ishan Kishan batting first in the order, he may bat either as a specialized batter or a wicketkeeper.
