Sanju Samson has impressed one and all with his batting abilities. The fact that he is a wicket keeper makes him a better asset for the cricketing future of the country. If one has to believe Danny Morrison, Dhoni will not be continuing in all formats of the game after an year or two. This is all based on his conversation with Stephen Fleming; the Head coach of Chennai Super Kings. Going on the track record and the success, it is more likely that Dhoni will prefer limited overs cricket over Test cricket, leaving a wicket keeper spot up for grabs.
There was a time when India lacked a quality wicket keeper who could bat. But , now there seems to be plenty of them. The sight of two Indian wicket keepers playing in the 11 of IPL teams just proves the fact.
Looking at Samson as the future prospect, it is very likely that he will get the nod ahead of everyone else. However, he has a lot to prove himself in the longer version of the game. T20 cricket doesn’t always reflect the Test playing ability of a batsman.
So, where is he going wrong?
Talent is one thing and to bring it onto the field is different thing. Samson has been guilty of not converting his starts into big ones and throwing his wicket with poor shots. He seems to be in much hurry and likes to go after the bowling, regardless of the quality of the bowler and the bowling. In the Ranji scenario, he is yet to prove himself against big opposition as Kerela doesn’t generally get a chance against them. One is bound to do a mistake, but the problem is when he cannot rectify them or is not caring to rectify them. This might be a sign of over confidence. His six of Dale Steyn was a treat to watch but then going after every one after that is what caused him his wicket. The other problem with these youngsters is that when they play the junior cricket, they can score boundaries almost at will. They try to replicate it in senior cricket, and it back fires them.
K Rahul, on the other hand, has impressed one and all with his ability to build an innings. He looks calmer and composed during his stay on the crease. His domestic records just add to his tally. The Laxman and Azharuddin flavor in him is the most eye catching aspect of his batting.
Samson needs to look at his game plan again. The expectations are continuously increasing from him, and it will just add extra pressure on him. He should be concentrating on building an innings and then going after the bowling.
