I want to play Tests for India: Sanju Samson

After scoring a century in the third T20I against Bangladesh in Hyderabad, keeper-batter Sanju Samson has said that he is eyeing to play Test cricket for India. The Kerala-born cricketer made his T20I debut in 2015 and ODI debut in 2021 but never got a consistent run in the national team. He always remained a backup option as the 29-year-old failed to justify his worth due to his inconsistent performances.

However, after his century, Samson is confident that he has got the skill set to succeed in red-ball cricket as well. He revealed that the Indian team management reached out to him ahead of the Duleep Trophy 2024 and asked him to play Ranji cricket as he is in contention to play red-ball cricket for India.

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‘“I believe I have the skill set to succeed in red-ball cricket and I just don’t want to be restricted to just white-ball cricket. I desire to play Tests for India. Before the Duleep Trophy, the leadership group had told me that they were considering me for red-ball cricket and asked me to take it seriously and play more Ranji Trophy matches,’’ Samson was quoted as saying by The Hindu.

Notably, Samson has played 64 first-class games, scoring 3819 runs at an average of 38.96. He missed the opening round of the ongoing Ranji Trophy but will be in action in Kerala’s upcoming match against Karnataka, which will begin on October 18.

Gautam Gambhir believes in my talent: Samson

Samson revealed that the current India head coach Gautam Gambhir has faith in him as the former cricketer has conveyed the same. Revealing his chat with Gambhir, Samson stated that his coach’s support is a huge confidence boost to him and added that the 43-year-old advised him to play freely, without any fear.

“Since the beginning, he has told me not to be afraid and that I have his full backing. He believes in my talent. His support is a huge confidence boost,” he shared.