Following Rishabh Pant‘s car accident, he has been forced to take a prolonged break from international cricket. It has created an opening in India’s middle order for the ODI format. Rahul and Samson are being considered as possible replacements for Pant in the middle order due to his absence.
With the 50-over World Cup fast approaching, India is in need of a replacement for the injured Rishabh Pant in the middle order for ODIs.
Samson and Rahul’s next best option
KL Rahul, a senior batter, appears to be the ideal candidate for the position, having previously batted in the middle order in a significant number of ODIs and possessing an impressive track record. He has batted at number 5 in 16 One-Day International innings, achieving an average of 50 and a strike rate of 102, which are outstanding figures for that position.
In addition, the team trusts KL Rahul in the middle order due to his performance in death overs. He had scored 288 runs in the last ten overs at a strike rate of 162.71. The Karnataka batsman seems to have mastered that position in just a few opportunities.
Despite being dismissed only 14 times, KL Rahul boasts an impressive average of 48.78 and a healthy strike rate of 91.18 against all types of spinners. With Rahul serving as the wicket-keeper and batting in the middle order, India has the option to play an additional batsman or bowler as required. In his 15 innings at No. 5, Rahul has shown that he can perform both roles with ease and excellence.
Sanju, an excellent backup for Pant
Sanju Samson has a strong track record in the IPL. He has scored more than 3,500 runs with a strike rate of over 135 across 138 matches. He is particularly effective as an opener, having achieved a strike rate of over 165 in four T20 Internationals for India.
In his limited career in ODI matches, Samson has an impressive average of 66. He demonstrated his batting prowess in the ODI series against South Africa earlier in 2022, scoring an unbeaten 86. He also played a vital role in reviving India’s innings in a match against Ireland scoring 77 off 42 deliveries.
Samson offers the Indian team an optimal blend of experience and dynamism. His abilities go beyond what his statistics suggest. With outstanding first-class performances, he has the potential to be a valuable long-term asset for Team India. He has also previously served as a backup for the senior team during various tours.
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