Real threat not ICC ban; Big test awaits Sanju Samson at Wankhede

MUMBAI: Ambiguity over a possible ICC ban on Kerala cricket superstar Sanju Samson is the topic that has gained headlines ahead of India’s crucial semifinal battle with England today. If Sanju opens the batting, the real threat that demands discussion is how he would handle the ruthless seam of English pacer Jofra Archer.

Archer has dismissed Sanju three times in 23 balls in five innings. The statistics show that this is no coincidence. Sanju's average against Archer since the start of 2025 is just 18.13. Of the 15 times Sanju has been dismissed against pacers, 14 have been on 'good lengths'. Archer has bowled in the same way.

The Wankhede pitch favours pacers. The balls under eight metres in the stadium so far have taken 10 wickets here at an average of 16.5. The bounce and pace of the ball are likely to trouble Sanju. England may use Archer's short balls to keep Sanju on the defensive.

Sanju's unbeaten 97 against the West Indies was a testament to his form. It would be wise if Sanju takes his lessons from Abhishek Sharma, who easily surpassed Archer scare in previous outings. Abhishek scored 62 runs in 33 balls by coming out of the crease and through pull shots to disrupt Archer's rhythm.

The ICC review may be limited to a fine or demerit point for Sanju, which may not affect selection. If Sanju can survive the first two overs of Archer, India's opening start will set the pace for the rest of the innings.