Sanju Samson of Rajasthan Royals drives Kunal Pandya of Lucknow Super Giants within the IPL match at Ekana stadium in Lucknow on Saturday .
| Photo Credit: SANDEEP SAXENA
The stylish fifties made by Sanju Samson and KL Rahul within the IPL has intensified the race for the second wicketkeeper’s slot within the Indian workforce for the upcoming T20 World Cup, reckoned former South African captain Graeme Smith.
The Indian squad for the marquee occasion in June is ready to be introduced quickly and Rishabh Pant is ready to be drafted in because the first-choice wicketkeeper-batter.
“They (Rahul and Samson) needed to build a partnership. Rahul did it with (Deepak) Hooda and Sanju did it beautifully with Dhruv Jurel. The difference was that Sanju finished the game, while KL got out at a key phase. But it was brilliant to see both excellent players put their hands up for World Cup selection,” stated Smith in JioCinema.
Rahul made a 48-ball 76 for Lucknow Super Giants, however Samson trumped that effort with an unbeaten 71 off 33 balls as Rajasthan Royals cruised to a seven-wicket victory.
Former Australian pacer Brett Lee lauded Jurel for supporting Samson with a tremendous 52 not out off 34 balls throughout their unbroken fourth wicket stand that was value 121 runs.
“He’s a quality batter. He’s got proper cricket shots. He can play all formats of the game and knows when to go through the gears as needed.
“His shots are classy and have the power to go towards the cow corner. He shows his class and continues to grow in stature,” stated the New South Welshman.
The level discovered resonance in Smith.
“The run-chase looked easy. Dhruv Jurel and Sanju Samson had an incredible partnership to get them over the line. They had (Shimron) Hetmyer still to bat, so there was a lot in the tank, lots of match-winners with the bat and ball. That squad is looking very strong,” stated Smith.