NEW DELHI: Legendary India batter Sunil Gavaskar launched a scathing attack on wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson for not having a steady India career despite showing flashes of brilliance.
Rajasthan Royals skipper Samson had a strong showing in IPL 2024. As captain, he guided his team to Qualifier 2, where Sunrisers Hyderabad defeated them by 36 runs.
As a batter, Samson was impressive, amassing 531 runs at an average of 48.27 and a strike rate of 153.47. However, he couldn't deliver in the crucial Qualifier 2, getting out for 10 runs off 11 balls during RR's chase of 176 in Chennai. Despite his overall success, this crucial performance fell short when his team needed it most.
Despite his undeniable talent, Samson has struggled to deliver consistent performances, which is crucial for securing a regular spot in a highly competitive team.
Former India captain Gavaskar expressed his frustration over Samson's dismissal while speaking on Star Sports. Gavaskar criticised Samson's shot selection, questioning the decision-making that led to his early exit in such a crucial match.
"What's the use of scoring 500 runs if you can't win your team the match or title? Everyone got out while playing glamorous shots. Why has Samson not had a steady India career? It's because his shot selection has let him down," said Gavaskar.
Gavaskar went on to say that Samson's poor shot selection has been a major factor in his inability to secure a permanent spot in the Indian team.
"If his shot selection had been good, his India career too would have been long. I hope that the opportunity he has got in the T20 World Cup, he grabs it with both hands and cements his place," added Gavaskar.
