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Xtra Time Web Desk: As the T20 World Cup draws closer, the question on every cricket fan's mind is: What more does Sanju Samson need to do to earn his place in India's squad? With runs, leadership, and match-winning performances under his belt, Samson's credentials seem undeniable. Yet, the competition for the wicketkeeper slot intensifies with Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul pushing hard. Leading the charge with 385 runs in nine matches, Samson stands as the top-scoring Indian wicketkeeper-batsman in IPL 2024. His unbeaten 77 off 33 balls against Lucknow Super Giants showcased his prowess, prompting even the usually composed Samson to unleash a rare celebration, almost demanding selectors' attention.

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Despite consistent performances, big tournaments have eluded Samson so far. Yet, IPL 2024 presents his biggest opportunity to claim a spot in India's T20 World Cup squad. However, Pant's resurgence cannot be overlooked, with the Delhi Capitals captain making a compelling case with 371 runs at an impressive average. Adding an unexpected twist to the selection dilemma is KL Rahul. The Lucknow Super Giants' captain has emerged as a strong contender, amassing 378 runs from nine matches. Samson's recent standout performance against Rahul's team has fuelled the debate further, with observers calling for his inclusion.

Cricketing world praise Sanju:

Praising Samson’s run-scoring pedigree in difficult situations, Kevin Pietersen said:

“He has to go. There’s no doubt in my mind that he has to be on that aeroplane to the Caribbean and the USA in a couple of weeks. He is doing a lot with the pressure that he is also under as a captain and not being given higher honours. The way he scores runs and the situation he bats in, if I was the selector, he is one of my first picks.”

The Royals posted a video to pay tribute to their skipper:

Team's director of cricket and head coach Kumar Sangakkara praised Samson in the video. He said that Samson has a good 8-9 years for the Royals in future and has been a great servant for RR and the Indian team too. "I think everyone has rooted for him all the time. The more he has played, the more people have seen what a great servant he has been, not just for Rajasthan, but for India as well for the long-term," he said. "I think is just the start for him in the later part of his career. He is only 29, he has got a good 8-9 years left in him with this franchise. I think it is definitely emotionally and professionally his home," Sangakkara added.

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"It's been six years with Sanju bhaiyya. He always had the presence of being an actual captain. He was always there. He was always making those decisions on the field, off the field. He was always there in the leadership group. He is a captain I want to win games for. That's the best captain you can have," Parag said in the video.

As the deadline for squad announcement approaches, the BCCI selection panel faces a daunting task. Amidst speculation, fans hope for a decision that aligns with form and merit. With just days left, the anticipation mounts, and the cricketing world awaits the fate of Samson's World Cup aspirations.