Team India’s star wicketkeeper-batsman, Sanju Samson, continues to be a prominent figure in the cricketing world. News regarding his possible departure from the Rajasthan Royals and discussions about his exclusion from the India team for the Asia Cup have kept Samson in the spotlight. However, Samson has consistently impressed with his bat, smashing boundaries and sixes and keeping his name on fans’ minds. Despite his brilliant batting, Samson will miss the chance to win the Kerala Cricket League trophy. His team, Kochi Blue Tigers, has secured a place in the final.
The final lineup for the Kerala Cricket League 2025 season was decided on Friday, September 5th. After the completion of the semi-finals, Aries Kollam Sailors and Kochi Blue Tigers secured their spots in the final. In the first semi-final, Kollam defeated Thrissur Titans convincingly, winning by 10 wickets. The Titans were dismissed for only 86 runs, a target Kollam achieved in 10 overs.
The second semi-final was between the Tigers and Calicut Globestars. Kochi Tigers batted first. In this match, Kochi was without Sanju Samson. Samson, who has been consistently explosive with the bat in this tournament, left for Dubai with the Indian team for the Asia Cup before the semi-finals. However, the team did not feel his absence, and a blistering 64 runs with 7 sixes from Nikhil Thottath helped the team reach 186 runs. Muhammad Ashiq also contributed 31 runs off 10 balls.
In reply, Calicut scored 171 runs. Akhil Scaria scored 72 runs off 37 balls, but it was not enough to win the match, and Kochi won by 15 runs to advance to the final. Ashiq also did well with the ball, taking 3 wickets for 26 runs.
Kochi will be without Sanju Samson in the final on Sunday, September 7th. The team won the semi-final without Samson, but the final won’t be easy. Samson has also missed out on the chance to win the title for his team. He was the team’s highest run-scorer this season. In just 6 matches, he scored 368 runs at an average of 73 and a strike rate of 186, including 30 sixes and 24 fours. Samson will now be aiming for the Asia Cup, where he could play a significant role.