Sanju Samson: The Most Underrated Cricketer
In the world of cricket, there are those players who steal the spotlight and receive the recognition they deserve. And then there are those who silently make their mark, often overlooked and underrated. Sanju Samson falls into the latter category. Although he may not be a household name like some of his peers, his prowess on the field is undeniable.
At just 26 years old, Samson has already exhibited the skills and talent that make him a force to be reckoned with. From his explosive batting performances to his agile wicket-keeping, he consistently displays a level of maturity beyond his years. Yet, somehow, he remains under the radar of mainstream recognition.
But for those who truly understand the nuances of the game, Samson’s abilities are impossible to miss. His ability to effortlessly clear the boundary ropes, his elegant stroke play, and his razor-sharp reflexes behind the stumps have all contributed to his stellar reputation among his teammates and fellow professionals. It’s about time that the wider cricketing world begins to appreciate the phenomenal talent that is Sanju Samson.
Early career and rise to prominence
Sanju Samson’s journey in cricket began at a young age. Hailing from Kerala, he caught the attention of selectors with his exceptional performances in age-group cricket. He quickly rose through the ranks and made his debut for Kerala in domestic cricket at the age of 17. It was clear from the start that he had something special.
Samson’s breakthrough came in the 2013 Indian Premier League (IPL) when he represented the Rajasthan Royals. He made an immediate impact with his aggressive batting style and ability to score runs at a brisk pace. His performances earned him the title of the youngest player to score an IPL century, a record that still stands today.
Despite his early success, Samson’s achievements didn’t receive the same level of attention as some of his counterparts. The focus remained on more established players, overshadowing his remarkable talent. However, this didn’t deter Samson from continuing to excel on the field.
Underrated aspects of Sanju Samson’s game
One of the most underrated aspects of Samson’s game is his ability to clear the boundary ropes with ease. His effortless power and clean striking of the ball make him a nightmare for bowlers. Whether it’s hitting towering sixes or finding the gaps for boundaries, Samson has a natural flair for scoring runs.
In addition to his batting prowess, Samson is also a skilled wicket-keeper. His agility and lightning-fast reflexes behind the stumps have saved countless runs for his team. He has a knack for taking stunning catches and executing sharp stumpings, making him a valuable asset behind the wickets.
Furthermore, Samson possesses a level of maturity and composure that is rare for someone of his age. He has the ability to read the game, assess the situation, and adapt his approach accordingly. This level-headedness allows him to thrive under pressure and deliver match-winning performances.
Comparison to other Indian cricketers
When comparing Samson to other Indian cricketers, it becomes evident that he is often overlooked in favor of more high-profile players. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and KL Rahul dominate headlines, Samson quietly continues to make significant contributions to his team.
In terms of batting, Samson’s style of play can be likened to that of Rohit Sharma. Both possess the ability to effortlessly clear the boundary and build innings with their elegant stroke play. Samson’s technique and timing are reminiscent of Sharma’s, which is a testament to his skill and ability at the crease.
When it comes to wicket-keeping, Samson’s agility and reflexes are comparable to the legendary MS Dhoni. While Dhoni is widely regarded as one of the best wicket-keepers in the history of the game, Samson’s abilities behind the stumps should not be underestimated. He has proven time and again that he can hold his own in this department.
Performance in domestic cricket
Samson’s performances in domestic cricket have been nothing short of exceptional. Representing Kerala in various tournaments, he has consistently been among the top run-scorers. His ability to perform consistently at the domestic level is a testament to his skill and dedication to the game.
In the Ranji Trophy, Samson has been a standout performer for Kerala. He has scored centuries and fifties against some of the best bowling attacks in the country. His ability to anchor the innings and build partnerships has been crucial to Kerala’s success in the tournament.
Furthermore, Samson’s performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, the premier domestic T20 competition in India, have been outstanding. He has been instrumental in guiding Kerala to the knockout stages of the tournament, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure in the shortest format of the game.
International career highlights
Samson’s international career has had its fair share of ups and downs. Despite making his debut for the Indian cricket team in 2015, he has struggled to cement his place in the side. However, there have been glimpses of his immense talent at the highest level.
One of the standout moments of Samson’s international career came during a T20I against New Zealand in 2020. He scored a scintillating century off just 54 balls, becoming only the second Indian player to achieve this feat in T20Is. His innings was a display of his power-hitting and ability to take the game away from the opposition.
Although his opportunities have been limited, Samson has shown that he has the potential to be a match-winner for India. With his ability to score runs quickly and his sharp wicket-keeping skills, he brings a unique skill set to the team.
Media and fans’ perception of Sanju Samson
Despite his remarkable performances, Samson has often been overlooked by the media and fans alike. The focus tends to be on more established players, leaving little room for recognition of his talent. This lack of attention has contributed to Samson’s underrated status in the cricketing world.
However, there is a growing section of fans and experts who have begun to acknowledge Samson’s abilities. They recognize his potential and the impact he can have on the game. With each impressive performance, Samson is slowly but surely gaining the recognition he deserves.
Criticisms and controversies surrounding Sanju Samson
Like any other player, Samson has faced his fair share of criticisms and controversies. One of the main criticisms leveled against him is his inconsistency. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, he has also had periods of poor form where he has struggled to make an impact.
Furthermore, there have been instances where Samson’s shot selection has come into question. Some critics argue that he tends to play too aggressively, resulting in unnecessary dismissals. However, it is important to remember that aggression is a key aspect of his game and has often led to match-winning performances.
Additionally, Samson has been involved in a few controversies throughout his career. From disciplinary issues to disagreements with team management, these incidents have overshadowed his performances on the field. However, it is crucial to separate the off-field incidents from his cricketing abilities and recognize the immense talent he possesses.
Potential for future success
Despite the challenges and setbacks, Samson’s potential for future success is undeniable. At just 26 years old, he has already achieved remarkable feats and shown glimpses of his immense talent. With each passing year, he continues to grow as a player and refine his skills.
Samson’s ability to adapt to different formats of the game is a testament to his versatility. Whether it’s the longer format of Test cricket, the fast-paced action of T20s, or the strategic challenges of ODIs, he has proven that he can excel in all formats. This adaptability will be crucial as he looks to establish himself as a regular in the Indian team.
Furthermore, Samson’s dedication and work ethic are commendable. He has shown a willingness to learn and improve, constantly seeking ways to enhance his game. With the right guidance and support, there is no doubt that he has the potential to become one of the best cricketers in the world.
Conclusion: Recognizing Sanju Samson’s talent
In conclusion, Sanju Samson is undoubtedly one of the most underrated cricketers in the world. His explosive batting, agile wicket-keeping, and level-headedness on the field make him a formidable player. While he may not receive the same level of recognition as some of his peers, his talent and potential for future success cannot be ignored.
It is time for the wider cricketing world to appreciate and acknowledge the phenomenal talent that is Sanju Samson. As he continues to showcase his abilities and make significant contributions to the game, it is only a matter of time before he receives the recognition he truly deserves.