India's star wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson roared with the bat and struck a phenomenal century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) 2025-26 clash against Jharkhand. Opening the batting for Kerala, Samson formed a formidable 212-run partnership with captain Rohan Kunnummal. While Kunnummal was the primary aggressor with a blistering 124 off 78 deliveries, Samson anchored the chase with clinical precision.
Sanju Samson fires splendid ton in Kerala's win over Jharkhand
Samson’s knock was a blend of athletic running and calculated power. He kept the scoreboard ticking with 43 singles and two doubles, consistently finding gaps on the off-side. When the opportunity arose, he punished short deliveries toward the fine-leg region and cleared the ropes with three massive sixes, all struck straight down the ground toward long-on or long-off.
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Sanju Samson overlooked in India's ODI squad for New Zealand series
Despite ticking every box for a national recall, Samson was ultimately overlooked for India's upcoming ODI series against New Zealand as Rishabh Pant got the selectors' nod. The wicketkeeper-batter has found himself on the sidelines of the 50-over format for over two years, with his last appearance being a standout 108-run performance against South Africa in December 2023.
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While KL Rahul remains the primary choice behind the stumps for the national side, the competition for the backup role has intensified. The selectors have opted for Rishabh Pant as the second wicketkeeper for the New Zealand series, even though Pant has faced scrutiny over his recent limited-overs form. This selection leaves Samson as the standout domestic performer yet to break back into the ODI squad.
Samson’s recent form in the T20I format has been exceptional, underscored by three centuries while opening the batting. This dominant streak has earned him a secure spot in India’s squad for the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup. Interestingly, while Shubman Gill was recently omitted from the T20 roster following a dip in form and fitness, Samson has successfully retained his position, signaling the selectors' confidence in his explosive potential at the top of the order.
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In contrast, Ishan Kishan endured a rare failure. Despite his 21-run dismissal, Kishan has been in blistering form lately, famously leading Jharkhand to their maiden Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title as the tournament's top run-scorer. He even celebrated his recent T20 World Cup recall with a record-breaking 33-ball century against Karnataka in the Vijay Hazare Trophy just days ago, proving that his aggressive style remains a major asset.