The Indian cricketing fraternity is once again divided — not over performances, but over selections. The recent announcement of India’s squad for the ODI series against Australia has triggered backlash, especially due to the exclusion of Sanju Samson and the simultaneous inclusion of Dhruv Jurel, a relatively new face in limited-overs cricket.
Former India opener and selector Kris Srikkanth was among the first to publicly question the decision. In a strongly worded statement reported by CricketMan2, Srikkanth called Samson’s omission “unfair,” especially since the Kerala-born cricketer had scored a century in his last ODI against South Africa in 2023. “How did Dhruv Jurel come in?” Srikkanth asked, pointing to the inconsistencies in how players are given (or denied) opportunities.
Samson’s limited-overs numbers support Srikkanth’s stance. Despite being in and out of the squad, he has maintained a solid average and a high strike rate. However, critics argue that he has never been given a fixed batting position, which may have hindered his rhythm and form.
Meanwhile, Dhruv Jurel’s sudden rise has made him a hot topic. After his brilliant 125-run knock in the Ahmedabad Test against the West Indies — his first international century — Jurel has seemingly leapfrogged several contenders in India’s deep wicketkeeping pool. As noted by Cricket Addictor, Jurel’s performance has cast long shadows on the careers of both Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson, with selectors possibly viewing Jurel as the long-term wicketkeeper option for India in all formats.
But not everyone sees Jurel purely as a keeper. Former India batting coach Vikram Rathour has added an interesting twist. In a feature by the Times of India, Rathour suggested that Jurel’s temperament, technique, and composure under pressure make him suitable even as a specialist batter in the future especially when Rishabh Pant returns and reclaims the gloves.
This selection debate highlights a larger issue in Indian cricket: a lack of clarity and consistency in the handling of fringe players, especially talented wicketkeeper-batsmen. While Jurel’s inclusion may be justified based on recent red-ball form, critics argue that selection policies should reward consistency and past performances, something Sanju Samson has quietly delivered despite limited chances.
The bigger question remains: will Sanju Samson get another shot before the 2025 Champions Trophy or the next World Cup cycle? Or has Indian cricket already turned the page?