'Not a great idea': Ex-India star boldly contradicts Kishan, Patel for WC, backs Samson

Team India has successfully won the Test and ODI series against the West Indies. Recently, the 3rd ODI match was dominated by the Men in Blue, who won the match by a massive 200-run margin. However, with no time to rest, India is set to start their 5-match T20 series against the West Indies on August 3, 2023.

3 things you need to know 

• India won the ODI series by (2-1)
• India eyes winning its first ICC trophy since 2013 in the ODI World Cup in October
• Ishan Kishan was the Player of the Series in the ODI series against West Indies

Also Read: R Ashwin explains what happens if India adopt Bazball: 'We'll drop at least four players'

Mohammad Kaif makes huge statement on Sanju Samson ahead of the Team India selection for the ICC ODI WC

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif believes Sanju Samson has the qualities to flourish as a middle-order batsman and should be named to the final 15-man squad for the 2023 ICC One-Day International World Cup, which will take place in India in October-November.

Samson showcased his skills by striking a superb 50 under pressure during a crucial third ODI match against the West Indies at Tarouba. His performance exhibited eligibility for a middle-order slot, especially as he was competing with Suryakumar Yadav for the position. Mohammad Kaif stated:

"I am massively impressed by Samson. He played an impactful knock, whether, at four or five, he has done it in the past."

Samson's powerful performance in a must-win circumstance strengthens his case for selection in the World Cup squad. Injuries to players like Shreyas Iyer and K. L. Rahul have opened up possibilities for players like Samson and Suryakumar. Notably, Suryakumar encountered difficulties during the Caribbean series, making Samson's performance even more decisive in the selection process.

Also Read: R Ashwin explains what happens if India adopt Bazball: 'We'll drop at least four players'

What did Mohammed Kaif say about Ishan Kishan and Axar Patel?

Speaking at the launch of Amrit Mathur's book 'Pitchside' on Wednesday, he stated: 

Sending Kishan or Axar Patel in the middle order is not a great idea. You need someone who can play left-arm spin, and leg spin, and Samson can do that. His knock in the third ODI came under pressure and he is ready for the World Cup,

Unlike Axar Patel and Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson received high praise from Mohammad Kaif for his outstanding effort in the third ODI. Kaif considers Samson a viable middle-order contender for the World Cup team owing to his versatility in playing against left-arm spin and leg spin. He emphasised how crucial it was for the team to have a cool-headed, resilient guy like Samson.