Ravichandran Ashwin weighs in on Sanju Samson's T20 World Cup inclusion

Rajasthan Royals' captain Sanju Samson has earned a spot in India's 15-member squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup scheduled to take place in the USA and West Indies next month. 

The power-packed performances of Samson throughout the IPL 2024 season, where he led RR to the playoffs, solidified his position as a key player for India's campaign.

Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin expressed his delight at Samson's selection, highlighting the significance of his contributions to the team's success. 

"With Sanju, if you ask him, he’ll say he’s been playing very selfishly this year, but he’s striking at 165 (155.52). That’s exactly what we needed from Sanju Samson this year. I’m so happy for him, and I’m thrilled that he’s made it to the Indian World Cup side," Ashwin said.

Samson's impressive form with the bat, coupled with his leadership skills, has earned him accolades from peers and fans alike. His inclusion adds depth and dynamism to India's batting lineup, setting the stage for an exciting T20 World Cup campaign.

The wicketkeeper-batsman is demonstrating his batting prowess by ranking sixth in terms of run-scoring in the ongoing IPL 2024. He has amassed 521 runs in 15 matches, including five half-centuries, at an impressive average of 52.10 and a strike rate of 155.52.

Yesterday in the Eliminator round, Royal Challengers Bangalore faced another tournament-ending loss against Rajasthan Royals. They were unable to defend the target of 173 runs, resulting in their elimination from the tournament and missing out on advancing to the next round.

Rajasthan Royals' victory sets up a clash with Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Qualifier II round of the tournament on May 24. The winner of this match will then proceed to face Kolkata Knight Riders in the final showdown on May 26.

India is in Group A alongside Pakistan, Ireland, Canada, and hosts USA. They kick off their campaign against Ireland on June 5 at the newly-built Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York, followed by a highly anticipated match against Pakistan on June 9 at the same venue. Subsequently, they will face USA and Canada on June 12 and 15, respectively.