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Biju George's big revelation on Sanju Samson's Priority of tournamnet

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Xtra Time Web Desk: Renowned fielding coach Biju George has disclosed that Sanju Samson's primary focus lies on clinching a trophy with Kerala rather than participating in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024. This revelation surfaces following Samson's recent inclusion in the 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup by the Indian selection committee. Acknowledging his stellar performances in the IPL 2024 season, the committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, designated him as the secondary wicket-keeper batsman alongside Delhi Capitals captain Rishabh Pant.

What did Biju George say about Sanju Samson?

In a recent interview with PTI, Biju George shed light on Sanju Samson's journey and mindset, revealing the challenges he faced to establish himself as a cricketer. George, known for his stint as the fielding coach of the Indian Women's team, was instrumental in mentoring Samson during the early stages of his career in Kerala.

Despite his talent, Sanju Samson's path to the Indian national team has been marked by limited opportunities and sporadic appearances. In the T20 format, Samson endured a five-year hiatus between his debut against Zimbabwe in 2015 and his subsequent match, primarily due to inconsistency.

Similarly, in One-day cricket, Samson had to wait for a year after his debut against Sri Lanka in July 2021 to earn his second cap. However, his performance in the format against the West Indies in July 2022 showcased his potential.

The pinnacle of Samson's career trajectory arrived with his selection in the main squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, hinting at a potential World Cup debut for the Men in Blue in the USA and West Indies. Despite the excitement surrounding this opportunity, Biju George disclosed that Samson's primary focus remains on securing a trophy with his state team, Kerala.

"We spoke a few minutes after his selection to the T20 World Cup. But he was more interested in talking about the need for Kerala to win at least one trophy in the upcoming domestic season. He was saying that more children will take up cricket in the state if the team gets some success at the national level." - Biju George told PTI.

Samson has always been strong mentally, says George

Biju George recently highlighted the unwavering determination displayed by Sanju Samson from his early cricketing days. George recounted the relentless commitment of Samson and his brother Saly, who dedicated themselves to practicing at the nets irrespective of weather conditions or time constraints.

Despite residing 25 kilometers away from the nets in Thiruvananthapuram, located in Vizhinjam, Samson braved heavy rainfall to attend practice sessions. George revealed that Samson even packed his school uniform in his cricket kit bag, demonstrating his dedication to balancing academics with his passion for cricket.

"Rain or sunshine Sanju and his brother Saly will be at nets at the Medical College ground in Thiruvananthapuram. It was raining heavily one day here, and I thought Sanju would not come for nets from his home at Vizhinjam, nearly 25 kilometres from the centre. Even at that age, he had next-level resolve." - George concluded.