Jammu & Kashmir batter Abdul Samad starred with a 96-ball 75 against TNCA President's XI in the Buchi Babu invitational tournament 2025 semifinal. While Samad’s knock went in vain, he showed signs of maturity. Ahead of the Ranji Trophy 2025-26, Samad opened up on how moving from Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) has been a good switch for him. He talked about Rishabh Pant not bothering him while batting but rues not fulfilling the finisher role in the last few games of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
"A new team was a good changeover for me," Samad told ESPNCricinfo. "Changing from SRH [Sunrisers Hyderabad] to LSG... I got to see new people and new team-mates. Last season was good for me [but] I couldn't finish well in the last three games. But I felt good [with my personal form]. I really like Rishabh Pant's mindset and he doesn't bother much when batting. See the ball hit, the ball. If it's there, [he] hits it."
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The 23-year-old played 13 games for LSG in the previous season. From 12 games, he scored 164 runs at an average of 20.50, including his IPL best of 45, which came against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a losing cause. His strike rate in the season was 176.34, better than previous season (168.51) for SRH.
What has changed in Samad’s technique?
Samad also opened up about the changes he has made to his technique that have helped him tackle the spin-bowling better in the red-ball format. He credited head coach Ajay Sharma for the change and revealed his advice.
"Yeah, I've changed something in my technique while playing spin and that thing is helping me - I'm trying to apply myself, especially against spin bowling," Samad said. "I've been working with our head coach Mr Ajay Sharma for the last two years and my batting has changed a lot after that. He always says one thing while playing spin: 'Keep your head down and try to reach the ball'. And that's working for me."
Samad to be tested by Mumbai
Samad will be back in action in red-ball cricket when Jammu & Kashmir take on Mumbai in their Ranji Trophy campaign opener starting October 15. In the previous season, Jammu & Kashmir beat Ajinkya Rahane-led Mumbai by five wickets. This time, it will be Shardul Thakur who will be leading Mumbai as Rahane has stepped down from the role.