Kochi: The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) has responded to the criticism surrounding Sanju Samson’s exclusion from the Indian team for the ICC Champions Trophy, following his absence from the Vijay Hazare Trophy training camp. KCA president Jayesh George stated that Sanju did not provide any specific reasons for his withdrawal from the camp.

There had been reports suggesting that the decision to leave Sanju out of the Vijay Hazare Trophy team by the KCA had led to his failure to secure a place in the Indian squad as well.

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The decision was heavily criticised by prominent figures, including Shashi Tharoor, who alleged that it was the "ego" of cricket authorities that led to Sanju’s omission from the team, despite the fact that he had informed KCA that he could not attend the training camp. Tharoor further suggested that the treatment of senior players needed to be more considerate.

In response, Jayesh George clarified, “Sanju only sent a brief email to the KCA secretary stating that he would not be attending. He didn’t provide any reason. After the camp ended and the team was announced, he sent another email saying he would be available. This isn’t the first time Sanju has played for KCA. When a camp is announced, a senior player like him should at least send a message explaining the reason for his absence. He didn’t do that.”

In an interview with a private channel, George added, “Because Sanju did not provide a valid reason, he was not included in the team.”

Sources have indicated that the BCCI selectors were also dissatisfied with Sanju’s failure to attend the training camp without a clear explanation. The BCCI is said to have a stance of expecting more commitment from senior players in domestic cricket.