Sanju Samson doesn't listen when someone asks him to play according to pitch: S Sreesanth

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently decided to exclude wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson from the ongoing ODIs against Australia. This decision raised eyebrows, especially considering that several key players were given a well-deserved rest for this series.

Samson's exclusion from the squad was met with mixed reactions, with many cricket fans and experts expressing their dissent on social media. Former India pacer S Sreesanth, known for his candid opinions, offered a different perspective on the matter. While cricket legends like Ravi Shastri and Sunil Gavaskar have acknowledged Samson's talents, Sreesanth pointed out a potential stumbling block in the batter's career.

“I think it's the right decision because it’s very important for a player to understand himself. From Gavaskar to Ravi Shastri, everyone rates him highly. There’s no doubt about his ability. But the approach… he doesn’t listen when someone asks him to play according to pitch. That attitude and approach he needs to change. That is why I keep telling him the same thing, even now when I meet him...read the wicket first and bat accordingly," Sreesanth told Sportskeeda.

Sreesanth drew a parallel between Samson and Rishabh Pant, highlighting the difference in their consistency. While Pant has consistently delivered high scores, Samson's performances have been more sporadic, even when facing teams like Ireland and Sri Lanka. Sreesanth emphasized that, given Samson's experience and age, higher expectations are natural.

“We Malyalis, who support him always say that he doesn't get enough chances, but that isn't right. Because he got regular chances against Ireland and Sri Lanka. He has been playing IPL for the last 10 years, is now the captain, and has three hundreds to his name, but he hasn't shown consistency. Look at Rishabh Pant. He has scores of some 300s for his state team. You are not a 19-year-old; you are going to be 35 in no time. So use this remaining of the year," he added.

Sreesanth concluded by emphasizing that while public sympathy can be easily garnered, genuine appreciation in the cricketing world comes from consistent performances. 

“There are a lot of people coming. In Asian Games, there are two good keepers part of the Indian team. It is very easy to get sympathy from people, but what you need is appreciation which will come with consistent show for India,” concluded Sreesanth.