"Ishan Kishan: The Preferred Wicketkeeper-Batsman over Sanju Samson for India in West Indies ODI Series - A Closer Look"| Sanju Samson Vs Ishan Kishan

  The absence of Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul has left India with a crucial decision to make regarding their wicketkeeper-batsman for the ongoing ODI series against West Indies. The two primary contenders for the role are Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan. This article discusses the reasons why Ishan Kishan might get the nod over Sanju Samson for the ODI series and how his inclusion can benefit India.

1.Left-handed Batting Option in the Middle Order:

One of the key reasons Ishan Kishan could be favored as the wicketkeeper-batsman is his ability to provide a left-handed batting option in the middle order. In the recent test series, captain Rohit Sharma mentioned the importance of having a left-handed batsman in the top order. Following that logic, the team management might prefer Kishan, who has shown promise with the bat in the limited-overs format and can anchor the innings in the middle order.

2.Ishan Kishan's Middle-Order Batting Record:

Ishan Kishan has a commendable track record while batting in the middle order for India in ODIs. He has performed well, scoring 106 runs in six innings at an average of 21 when batting at number four. Additionally, in four innings at number three, Kishan has amassed 163 runs at an impressive average of 40.73, including two half-centuries. This indicates his adaptability and ability to hold the innings together if given a chance in the middle order.

Ishan Kishan's ODI Batting Statistics:

Batting at Number 4:

Innings: 6

Runs: 106

Average: 21.20

50s: 1

Batting at Number 3:

Innings: 4

Runs: 163

Average: 40.75

50s: 2

Overall ODI Record:

Innings: 13

Runs: 510

Average: 42.5 

Strike Rate: 106.00

50s: 3

HS: 210

3.Rohit Sharma's Favoritism:

It is a well-known fact that captains often have their favorite players, and Rohit Sharma, being the Mumbai Indians skipper in the IPL, might show favoritism towards Ishan Kishan. Sharma's familiarity with Kishan's style of play and his ability to perform under pressure could influence his decision to select Kishan as the wicketkeeper-batsman for India.

4.Explosive Opening Option:

Ishan Kishan's potential as an explosive opening batsman cannot be overlooked. He has previously scored a double century , showcasing his ability to dominate the opposition from the very beginning. Given his aggressive approach and dynamic strokeplay, India could utilize Kishan as an opener, allowing him to take advantage of the powerplay overs.

As opener Stats:

Innings: 3

Runs: 241

Average: 80.33

100s: 1

Conclusion:

While Sanju Samson has had some decent performances in the ODI series against West Indies, the team management might opt for Ishan Kishan as the preferred wicketkeeper-batsman for the rest of the tour. With his experience in the middle order and the potential to provide a left-handed batting option, Kishan could add depth to India's batting lineup. Moreover, Rohit Sharma's favoritism towards the young prodigy, coupled with his explosive batting, makes Kishan a strong candidate to play all the ODIs in the West Indies tour. As the series progresses, it will be intriguing to see if Kishan gets the opportunity to prove his mettle and secure a spot in India's squad for the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023.

Sanju Samson's ODI Batting Statistics:

Batting at Number 5:

Innings: 5

Runs: 104

Average: 52.00

50s: 1

Batting at Number 6:

Innings: 4

Runs: 180

Average: 90.00

50s: 1

Overall ODI Record:

Innings: 10

Runs: 330

Average: 66.00

Strike Rate: 104.00

50s: 2       

Hs :  86*

Series: India tour of West Indies, 2023

1st ODI:

Date: July 27, 2023

Venue: Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados

Teams: West Indies (WI) vs. India (IND)

Time : 7:30 Pm ( IST)

2nd ODI:

Date: July 29, 2023

Venue: Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados

Teams: West Indies (WI) vs. India (IND)

3rd ODI:

Date: August 01, 2023

Venue: Tarouba, West Indies

Teams: West Indies (WI) vs. India (IND)