Sanju Samson Sends Strong Message To Ajit Agarkar & Co Ahead Of Asia Cup Squad Selection
Sanju Samson smashed a scintillating half-century in an exhibition match in Thiruvananthapuram, organised by the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) on Independence Day.
Amid the rumours of his exit from Rajasthan Royals, Sanju Samson has grabbed the limelight for his batting prowess. The wicketkeeper-batter smashed a scintillating half-century in an exhibition match in Thiruvananthapuram, organised by the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) on Independence Day. The knock comes right before the selection committee is set to pick the Indian squad for the Asia Cup, which is set to be played in the UAE in T20 format.
According to The Times of India, the game was played at the Greenfield Stadium, the venue was lit up with its brand-new LED floodlights, which were inaugurated through a mesmerizing laser and music show.
The exhibition game was a curtain-raiser for the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) Season 2, played between the KCA President's XI, led by Sachin Baby, and the KCA Secretary's XI, which featured Samson.
President's XI posted 184 for 8, following Rohan Kunnummal's blazing 29-ball 60 and Abhijith Praveen's brisk 47. Among the bowlers, Sharafudden stood out with figures of 3 for 25. In reply, Secretary's XI began strongly as Vishnu Vinod smashed 69 off just 29 balls.
After the fiery start, Sanju Samson held the innings together with a steady 54 from 36 deliveries. His dismissal, when only 13 runs were needed, brought some tense moments, but Basil Thampi sealed the chase in style by clearing the boundary to secure a thrilling one-wicket win with two balls left.
Away from the field, developments around Samson continue to make news. A Cricbuzz report suggests that the Rajasthan Royals skipper has asked for either a trade or release ahead of IPL 2026. Several franchises are believed to be in talks, with RR co-owner Manoj Badale personally handling discussions.
Chennai Super Kings were linked to him, but their unwillingness to part ways with key players like Ravindra Jadeja or Ruturaj Gaikwad makes that move unlikely.
Shivam Dube's name has also come up, though CSK are not considering letting him go. This opens the door for other franchises showing strong interest. There is still the possibility that Samson stays with the Royals if no trade goes through, despite reports of differences with the team management.
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