Sanju Samson's exclusion from the Indian team for the 2025 Champions Trophy emerged as a significant topic during the press conference held by captain Rohit Sharma and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar on Saturday. Samson's impressive performance in T20 internationals has intensified discussions regarding his potential inclusion in the squad, with many advocating for him to be the primary wicketkeeper over KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant.

Nevertheless, it was anticipated that his absence from the Vijay Hazare Trophy might negatively impact his selection chances. Reports indicated that the 30-year-old was omitted from the Kerala squad after he communicated his unavailability for the preparatory camp preceding the tournament. Jayesh George, president of the Kerala Cricket Association, confirmed this situation and criticized Samson for merely sending a "one-line text" to convey his inability to attend the camp in Wayanad.

When questioned by MediaOne about whether Samson's absence from the Champions Trophy squad was linked to his non-participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, George stated, “I cannot definitively say that his missing the tournament was the reason for his exclusion. The decision to leave him out of the Vijay Hazare squad stemmed from his one-line message indicating he would not be available for the 30-member preparatory camp. We had all assumed he would be leading the team, given his role as our white-ball captain and his leadership during the SMAT season."

He further elaborated, “Thus, we proceeded to announce the squad, and subsequently, he communicated his availability for selection. Whether it is Sanju Samson or any other player, the KCA has established policies that must be adhered to. While it is understood that Sanju does not require a camp to join the squad, can he represent the Kerala team only at his convenience? His journey to the Indian team was facilitated by the KCA, and that does not imply he can participate in the Kerala team solely when it suits him," he remarked.

Indian squad for the Champions Trophy

India, the champions on two occasions, is strengthened by the potential inclusion of Jasprit Bumrah; however, his participation is dependent on his fitness level. As a precautionary measure, Harshit Rana has been named as his replacement. Should Bumrah take the field, he will be joined by the returning Mohammed Shami, who is set to re-enter India's ODI lineup.

Bumrah and Shami will team up with Arshdeep Singh, recognized as the nation's leading bowler from 2024, serving as India's third primary seamer. This same lineup is scheduled to compete in the three-match ODI series against England commencing on February 6.

Despite his impressive form, Karun Nair has not been included in the squad. The captain of Vidarbha has been in exceptional form during the Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring 752 runs, including five centuries, with an average of 752. His performance has garnered attention from the legendary Sachin Tendulkar just a day prior. Nevertheless, as confirmed by BCCI chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, Nair has not secured a spot due to the preference for players who participate more frequently with the national team.

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