Sanju Samson's inclusion in India's T20 World Cup squad has sparked excitement and anticipation. The Kerala batsman's blistering form in the ongoing IPL, where he tops the batting charts for Rajasthan Royals, was instrumental in his selection. But where does Samson fit into a star-studded batting line-up and can he hold down the number 5 spot?
The number 5 batting position for India in the T20 World Cup has become a point of debate. Traditionally, the position has been occupied by a finisher, a player who can accelerate the run-rate in the final overs.
RR skipper Samson commented on his potential batting position in the Indian team:
“We were certainly considering it, as everyone is thinking about where Sanju will bat. However, I believe it is also crucial for the team to try to win the IPL. Winning the IPL should be the players’ main focus right now.”
Samson's ability to instinctively generate power on even the slowest of pitches could be crucial in the West Indies and the USA. The pitches are often slow and low.
No batsman has hit as many sixes as Sanju Samson (110) in IPL 2020, a remarkable feat in a league full of big hitters like Jos Buttler, Andre Russell, Glenn Maxwell, Rinku Singh, Jonny Bairstow, and more.
The BCCI announced the 15-man squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup on April 30.