Top India batter Sanju Samson has been left out of Kerala`s squad for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy after he failed to participate in the preparatory camp before the tournament, as reported by ESPNcricinfo. Earlier in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024-25, Samson led the Kerala squad, where they narrowly missed out on qualifying for the knockouts. Kerala won four of six matches in the tournament. 

According to ESPNcricinfo, Samson had written to the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA), where he stated the reason behind his unavailability for the camp. However, KCA stuck to their rule of including players in the squad who have taken part in the preparatory camp. Batter Salman Nizar will lead the Kerala squad in the upcoming 50-over domestic tournament after Sachin Baby was ruled out of the tournament as he suffered an injury during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024-25.