‘Why always him?’: Fans react to selectors’ decision to pick Rishabh Pant over Sanju Samson in India’s Champions Trophy squad
In a decision that sparked considerable debate among cricket fans, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) he revealed on Saturday (January 18) that Rishabh Pant was selected in Indian squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This was announced at a press conference held by the head coach Ajit Agarkar and an Indian captain Rohit Sharmawhere the squad for the tournament is presented.
Fans express their displeasure over Sanju Samson’s exclusion
The decision to favor Pant, who has faced criticism for his inconsistent performances in recent matches, has led to an outpouring of frustration from fans on social media. Many have turned to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, questioning why Pant is still preferred despite Sanju Samsonimpressive form in white-ball cricket.
One fan tweeted, “Why always him? while another wrote: “Not Sanja Samson in the Champions Trophy. You should feel guilty about Sanju. They chose Pant based on favoritism.”
No Sanju Samson in the Champions Trophy.
You should feel guilty about Sanju. They chose Pant based on favoritism. 💔 pic.twitter.com/RK5zW144ry
— Kunal Yadav (@Kunal_KLR) January 18, 2025
Gautam Gambhir has forgotten Sanja Samson ever since he tweeted about him.
Sanju Samson is 10 times better white ball WK batsman than Rishabh Pant.Unfortunately, Sanju doesn’t have a PR team like Rishabh Pant. #SamjuSamson pic.twitter.com/Da5bFPVwEK
— Satya Prakash (@_SatyaPrakash08) January 18, 2025
Despite Sanju Samson averaging nearly 57 match wins 💯 in his last ODI, 3 100s in his last 5 T20s have come out of the CT, while Pant has consistently dropped, just another great example of how good you PR can save without performance.
Shame @ImRo45@imAagarkar pic.twitter.com/FHlQjFxdSo
— Rosh🧢 (@samson_zype) January 18, 2025
Samson has been in sensational form, while Pant has been inconsistent. Samson’s exclusion is particularly contentious given his good performances in white-ball cricket leading up to his selection.
Sanju Samson does not have the strong support of PR and Mumbai lobby like Rishabh Pant who is playing in this ODI team without any effect.
Sanju Samson deserves better 🙂💔
— Kohlify_18 (@18_kohlify) January 18, 2025
Team India’s 2025 Champions Trophy Matches
India are all set to begin their ICC Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh on February 20, followed by the much-anticipated clash against Pakistan February 23. Pant will be under pressure to perform well and justify his selection, especially given the attention he is facing from fans and pundits alike.
ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma explains why Mohammed Siraj was not selected in India’s 2025 Champions Trophy squad.
