Agarkar explains why Samson was chosen for India’s T20 World Cup Squad over Kohli’s strike rate

The national selection committee’s decision to include Sanju Samson in India’s provisional 15-member squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions among cricket fans. The committee cited Samson’s ‘ability to bat down the order’ as the primary reason for his selection.

Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of the committee, explained, “We feel Sanju has the ability to come down the order, if need be. Rishabh (Pant) has been batting at No. 5 or No. 6. That was more the thinking about the slots we needed. These two were better at this point. Guys who spend a bit more time in the later part of the innings at the World Cup, that was the thinking…”

While Samson’s consistent performance for Rajasthan Royals in the ongoing Indian Premier League played a significant role in his selection, K.L. Rahul missed the cut despite his impressive form. Agarkar clarified, “KL is a terrific player, we all know that. The thing is we were looking at guys batting in the middle order, and at the moment, KL is batting at the top…”

The inclusion of Pant in the squad also grabbed headlines, considering his remarkable comeback to professional cricket after a horrific car crash. Pant’s stellar performance for Delhi Capitals in the IPL further solidified his place in the team.

Agarkar also addressed the speculation surrounding Virat Kohli’s strike rate, emphasizing that there were no discussions about it within the selection committee. Despite Kohli’s slightly lower strike rate in the IPL, Agarkar expressed confidence in the superstar’s form and experience heading into the World Cup.