Currently recovering from a thigh surgery, KL Rahul’s availability for the upcoming Asia Cup and subsequent World Cup remains uncertain. During the recently concluded ODI series against the West Indies, Ishan Kishan participated in all three games, while Sanju Samson had the opportunity to showcase his skills in two matches.
In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra was asked about Samson’s prospects in the Indian team compared to Ambati Rayudu’s career trajectory. Chopra responded:
“Given the current circumstances, if KL Rahul becomes fit and available, it’s unlikely we’ll see Samson in the World Cup squad. The same might apply to the Asia Cup team.”
Chopra, the former Indian opener, believes that Samson’s inclusion in the Asia Cup and World Cup squads hinges on KL Rahul’s recovery. He explained:
“However, if KL Rahul is unavailable, there’s a good chance we’ll see Samson playing in the Asia Cup and possibly even the World Cup. It’s all contingent on KL Rahul’s status.”
Ishan Kishan’s noteworthy performance, securing half-centuries in all three ODIs against the West Indies, potentially puts him ahead of Samson for the wicketkeeper-batsman position. Despite Samson scoring a half-century in the final ODI, his contributions in the rest of the tour were not as substantial.
Nevertheless, Aakash Chopra emphasized that Sanju Samson has plenty of cricket ahead of him. He pointed out:
“We shouldn’t forget that he’s only 28 years old; he’s not in his early 30s. Sanju has ample time ahead of him. It’s premature to discuss the end of the road for a player who’s in his late twenties. With the 2024 T20 World Cup on the horizon and a lot of cricket beyond that, there’s no need to feel concerned.”