Sanju Samson’s got everything, it’s just a matter of adapting to ODI cricket: AB de Villiers

AB de Villiers and Sanju Samson. (Photo Source: Twitter)

Sanju Samson is hailed by many legendary cricket experts as a generational talent. However, the fact that he has struggled to find a consistent place in any format for India gives an idea about his lack of consistency in international cricket. The Kerala cricketer is always there and thereabouts as far as selection to the Indian team is concerned. However, on most occasions, he gets a call-up only when the regular players are injured or rested.

It didn’t come as a huge shock when the 28-year-old wasn’t named in India’s 15-man squad for the impending 50-over World Cup. Wicketkeeper-batters Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul were picked in the squad ahead of him. Sanju was also a traveling reserve for the ongoing Asia Cup as a cover for the injured KL Rahul. However, once the experienced Karnataka cricketer regained full fitness, Sanju was sent back home.

Legendary South African cricketer AB de Villiers, who has played on a number of occasions against Sanju in the Indian Premier League, remembered one of the innings where the Pulluvila-born decimated his team with a 92-run knock. De Villiers lauded Sanju and said he has all the talent but only needs to adapt to ODI cricket and the pressure of playing a World Cup.

“I’ve been on the receiving end for RCB, watching him score 92 not out at the Chinnaswamy. The ball was flying all over the place. He’s also got the conventional cricket game and technique where he plays with a straight bat, and plays the ball nicely. He’s got a good pull and hook shot. He’s got everything in his bag. It’s all in the mind and it’s a matter of adapting to ODI and gameplans and the World Cup and the pressure thereof. So yes, two great players (Samson and Suryakumar),” De Villiers said in a video on his YouTube channel.

Control what you can control, but go fearless: AB de Villiers

The veteran noted that there will be immense pressure on India to win the World Cup, especially because they are playing at home. However, his advice to Rohit Sharma and Co. is to express themselves and play fearless cricket.

“I think India’s squad is incredible, really, really strong. The only worry I have for India is playing at home. They played in India, they won. There will be huge pressure. That’s the only big obstacle in my opinion. But if they can get rid of that and just free themselves up, I see no problem for India. Control what you can control. But go fearless. Fearless is the word I’m looking for the Indian squad. If they can do that, they’ll go a long way and most probably lift that trophy,” De Villiers concluded.