In a decision that has created a lot of controversy among cricket fans, a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) it was revealed on Saturday (January 18) that Rishabh Pant has been selected in India's upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad. The announcement was made at a press conference held by the chief executive Ajit Agarkar and captain of India Rohit Sharmawhere the army of the race was revealed.
Fans are expressing their displeasure with the dismissal of Sanju Samson
The decision in favor of Pant, who has been criticized for his poor performances in recent matches, has caused outrage among fans on social media. Many took to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, asking why Pant continues to be loved though. Sanju Samson's impressive appearance in the white cricket ball.
One fan tweeted, “Why always? while the other wrote: “No Sanju Samson in the Champions Trophy. You must feel sorry for Sanju. They chose Pants on the basis of bias.”
No Sanju Samson in Champions Trophy.
You must feel sorry for Sanju. He chose Pant on the basis of bias. 💔 pic.twitter.com/RK5zW144ry
– Kunal Yadav (@Kunal_KLR) January 18, 2025
Gautam Gambhir has forgotten Sanju Samson ever since he wrote about him.
Sanju Samson is 10 times better WK batsman than Rishabh Pant.Unfortunately Sanju does not have a PR team like Rishabh Pant. #SanjuSamson pic.twitter.com/Da5bFPVwEK
– Satya Prakash (@_SatyaPrakash08) January 18, 2025
Although Sanju Samson scored a match-winning average of 57 in his last ODI, 3 100s in his last 5 T20i fell from CT while Pant has consistently failed, just another example of how good PR can save you from underperforming.
Shame on @ImRo45@imAagarkar pic.twitter.com/FHlQjFxdSo
– Rosh🧢 (@samson_zype) January 18, 2025
Samson has been in exciting form, while Pant has not delivered consistently. Samson's release was controversial mainly because of his strong showing in white ball cricket which led to his selection.
Sanju Samson does not have the strong support of PR and Mumbai Lobby like Rishabh Pant who is playing in the ODI Team without any action.
Sanju Samson deserves better 🙂💔
– Kohlify_18 (@18_kohlify) January 18, 2025
Team India plays in Champions Trophy 2025
India are set to start their ICC Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh on February 20, followed by the highly anticipated debate Pakistan on February 23. The pressure will be on Pant to perform well and justify his selection, especially given the scrutiny he is facing from fans and experts.