Sanju Samson’s exclusion from India’s squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy has sparked a heated debate, with his father, Samson Viswanath, blaming certain individuals within the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) for the decision. Samson, who has showcased impressive form in T20Is, was left out of the Champions Trophy squad, even though his last ODI appearance was in December 2023.
Allegations of Bias
Samson Viswanath expressed frustration over what he claims is unfair treatment of his son by some KCA officials. “There are people within the KCA who seem to have a problem with my child,” he told Mathrubhumi. The controversy stems from Samson’s absence from the Vijay Hazare Trophy, which was reportedly due to his exclusion from Kerala’s squad after he opted out of a pre-tournament training camp.
“We’ve never spoken out against the association before, but this time it’s gone too far. Sanju wasn’t the only one who missed the camp, but he’s the only one who faced consequences,” Viswanath added.
KCA’s Stand on the Issue
KCA President Jayesh George defended the association’s policies but admitted that Samson’s absence from the preparatory camp played a role in the decision. Speaking to MediaOne, George stated, “Sanju sent a one-line text informing us he wouldn’t be available for the camp. We had already announced the squad expecting him to lead the team, but he later said he was available for selection. Whether it’s Sanju or anyone else, the KCA has policies that must be followed.”
George also pointed out that while Samson’s talent is undeniable, representing Kerala cannot be treated as optional. “Sanju doesn’t need a camp to prove his worth, but is it fair for him to join the Kerala team only when he feels like it? How did he reach the Indian team? It was through the KCA’s system,” George said.
Family’s Frustration
While Viswanath refrained from blaming George or KCA Secretary Vinod S Kumar directly, he accused certain “small people” within the association of creating unnecessary issues. “It’s not about Jayesh George or Vinod. There are small people in between who turn trivial matters into poison,” he said.
A Divisive Decision
Samson’s exclusion has sparked conversations about fairness and transparency within domestic cricket. With KCA maintaining its stance on policies and Samson’s family alleging bias, the controversy highlights the challenges cricketers face in balancing commitments to both domestic teams and the national side.
Fans and experts are now looking forward to how Samson responds to the setback and whether he can bounce back stronger in the coming months.
