The absence of wicket-keeper batter Sanju Samson from India’s ICC Champions Trophy squad remains one of the most perplexing decisions made by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee. Despite boasting impressive statistics in the 50-over format, Samson was overlooked in favour of Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul, the two preferred wicket-keepers for the tournament.

Samson’s exclusion from Kerala's Vijay Hazare Trophy squad is believed to have played a significant role in his omission from the Champions Trophy. This has prompted his father to launch a vehement criticism against the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA), suggesting that certain officials may harbour a personal bias against his son.