Ishan Kishan Replaces Sanju Samson in India A Squad

Promising wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan has replaced Sanju Samson in India A squad, for the upcoming tour of England after the latter failed to clear the mandatory Yo-Yo test on Monday (June 11).

Samson was initially named in the squad after impressing in the domestic season and the Indian Premier League (IPL) while representing Ajinkya Rahane-led Rajasthan Royals (RR).

Playing for Royals this season, he amassed 491 runs at an average of over 31 and a strike-rate of almost 138. Before that, he had a brilliant outing in the premium domestic first-class Ranji Trophy.

Samson scored 627 runs in seven games with the help of two tons and three fifties. He had also scored a century against the visiting Sri Lanka side, last year in a warm-up game.

However, Samson’s form counted for little as poor fitness saw him lose his spot in the India squad.

The fitness test has been made mandatory by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), for selection into the senior teams.

Currently, the players need to touch the mark of 16.1 in the Yo-Yo test – to make it to the team. And Samson paid the price for not touching the qualification mark.

Meanwhile, his replacement Kishan would be looking to make the most of the chance. The Jharkhand-born youngster was disappointed after not making it to the A squad despite impressive outing in the recently-concluded IPL and domestic cricket.

Kishan had a brilliant Vijay Hazare Trophy competition. The southpaw amassed 313 runs in five innings for Jharkhand at the whopping average of 78.25 in the nation’s premier 50-over tournament.

Playing for Mumbai, Kishan started off the season brightly before losing track towards the end. He finished the season with 275 runs to his name.

However, the performances were not enough to give him a place in the India A squad initially.

But Samson’s poor fitness has turned out to be a blessing in disguise for Ishan Kishan. The latter would be keen to make most of the grand opportunity.

Meanwhile, India A’s tour kicks off with the tri-series followed by three four-day fixtures.

India A will play two games against Windies A from July 4 to 7 and July 10 to 13. And one against England Lions from July 16 to 19 respectively.