WPL Chairman Jayesh George clarifies the definitive reason for Sanju Samson's initial omission: failing to play domestic cricket. George confirms Samson "got things rectified" by returning to state fixtures, fulfilling the BCCI's mandate for all players.
Special Correspondent
KOCHI: In a candid revelation, Jayesh George, the newly appointed Chairman of the Women's Premier League (WPL), has shed light on the recent decision to bring star batsman Sanju Samson back into the fold of domestic cricket and his subsequent return to the national setup.
Speaking in an interview, George, who is also the president of Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) confirmed his role in getting the Kerala wicketkeeper-batter to play domestic cricket, stressing that it was a necessary step for the player’s career progression and adherence to board protocols.
"I did that right in getting him back," George stated. "He returned and played domestic cricket. When our boys make mistakes, we correct them. That is our duty and responsibility. He got things rectified."
George further clarified the specific reason behind Samson’s initial period out of selection contention, tying it directly to his commitment to mandatory camps and domestic fixtures.
"Now he is in the squad and playing good cricket. He is attending a camp now. Last time, he did not attend and hence he did not get selected. That’s all," George explained.
The WPL Chairman emphasized that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been strict in its directive that all players must participate in domestic cricket, a mandate that many senior players had been overlooking.
"BCCI has asked players to play domestic cricket as many were not doing so," he said. He highlighted the importance of domestic competition, arguing that it "adds value" and "makes you a better player."
He drew parallels with cricketing legends of the past, noting, "You should note that Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar and all greats played domestic cricket when they were not playing internationals. You need to play for your State whenever you can."
George's comments confirm that Samson's return to playing for his state and his current involvement in the camp were key factors in his re-selection for the national squad, affirming the BCCI's focus on maintaining a strong grassroots structure for all Indian cricketers.
