Kerala Cricket Association destroyed my son’s career; Dravid offered support, says Sanju’s father

The ongoing discord between Indian cricketer Sanju Samson and the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) has escalated in recent weeks, with new claims from Samson’s father, Samson Viswanath, accusing the association of attempting to sabotage his son’s career. This comes after reports suggested that Samson was dropped from the Vijay Hazare Trophy squad due to alleged disciplinary issues, sparking controversy.

Samson, considered a major talent in Indian cricket, finds himself trapped between potential and politics. Despite his talent, his career has been marred by clashes with the KCA, supposedly culminating in his exclusion from the squad for the ICC Champions Trophy. The primary reason cited for this was his absence from the Vijay Hazare Trophy, having missed the pre-tournament camp.

The tensions between Samson and the KCA appear to be longstanding. According to Viswanath, when the KCA allegedly made efforts to undermine his son’s career, former India head coach Rahul Dravid stepped in to offer support. Viswanath recalled a particular incident when Dravid called Sanju, providing much-needed encouragement at a low point in his career.

“I will tell you one incident about Rahul Dravid. When KCA tried to disregard Sanju and destroy his career, Dravid ji had interfered in the matter. Wherever Sanju is today, he owes it to Rahul Dravid,” Viswanath said in an interview with Sports Today. He further shared how Sanju was devastated after KCA reportedly withdrew his kit and other support, only to receive a call from Dravid, which lifted his spirits.

Viswanath also detailed how Dravid continued to guide Samson after he was picked up by Rajasthan Royals in 2013, offering words of encouragement during difficult times. “Rahul sir said, ‘Don’t worry, they are jealous of you. Keep your morale high. I’ve got this covered.’ Rahul took Sanju under his wing and helped him at a level above the KCA’s influence,” Viswanath explained.

The strained relationship between Samson and the KCA appears to be reaching its peak. Samson’s exclusion from the Kerala squad for the ICC Champions Trophy, due to his failure to attend essential training sessions, has only intensified the tension. While KCA has pointed fingers at Samson for not fulfilling his commitments, Viswanath claims that there has been a deliberate campaign to isolate his son.

In an interview with Sports Tak, Viswanath expressed his frustration with the KCA, alleging that the association had been plotting against his son for months. “I knew six months ago that they were planning something against Sanju. KCA wanted him to leave Kerala. They put the blame on Sanju for everything, and people believe them,” he said, revealing the challenges his family has faced.

Given the ongoing tensions, Viswanath has appealed to other state cricket associations to consider offering Sanju a chance. “I want my son to stop playing for Kerala. If any state wants to give him a chance, I will appeal to them. Sanju has given 30 years of his life to cricket, but he’s being isolated now,” Viswanath said, urging a fresh start for his son in a different cricketing environment.

Reports suggest that other states, including Karnataka, may be interested in recruiting Samson, the Rajasthan Royals skipper, for their squads. Despite his strong presence in T20I cricket, Samson’s future in the ODI format remains uncertain, especially with his non-selection in favour of Rishabh Pant, a decision that has left many of his fans disheartened.

As the feud with the KCA continues, it remains to be seen how Sanju Samson’s career will unfold amidst the swirling controversies. (With inputs from Agencies)