S. Sreesanth criticized the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) for omitting Sanju Samson from the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024–25. KCA issued a show-cause notice to Sreesanth for his “false and defamatory” remarks. The dispute revolves around Samson’s absence from the domestic 50-over competition, which may have impacted his India selection. KCA recalled Sreesanth’s involvement in the spot-fixing case, highlighting the support he received from the association during his tough times.
Key Highlights:
Sreesanth Criticizes KCA Over Sanju Samson’s Non-Selection:
Former Indian pacer S. Sreesanth has once again found himself at the center of controversy. In a recent interview with Kerala media portal Onmanorama, Sreesanth openly criticized the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) for not selecting Sanju Samson for the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024–25. According to Sreesanth, the decision to leave Samson out was unfair and might have contributed to the wicketkeeper-batsman’s exclusion from India’s squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Reports suggest that Sanju Samson initially refused to participate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy before changing his mind at the last minute. Despite his willingness to play, the KCA chose not to include him in the final squad. This decision led to a wave of criticism, with Sreesanth expressing strong support for Samson and questioning the motives behind the move.
KCA’s Response and Show-Cause Notice:
Reacting to Sreesanth’s comments, the KCA labeled them “false and defamatory,” claiming they were damaging to the association’s reputation. However, KCA clarified that the show-cause notice was not issued because Sreesanth backed Samson, but rather for violating his contractual obligations as a co-owner of the Kollam Sailors team in the Kerala Cricket League.
In its official statement, the KCA took a harsh tone, referring to Sreesanth’s past involvement in a spot-fixing scandal. The association pointed out that it had always stood by him during difficult times, including when he was imprisoned on charges related to match-fixing.
“Sreesanth was given opportunities in matches, including the Ranji Trophy, after completing his sentence only because of KCA’s protective approach,” the statement read. “It is worth questioning whether other associations would have taken such a favorable stance toward a player involved in match-fixing.”
The Spot-Fixing Scandal Resurfaces:
The KCA’s response reignited memories of Sreesanth’s ban from cricket due to his alleged involvement in the 2013 IPL spot-fixing case. Although the criminal charges against him were dismissed by the court, the scandal continues to haunt his career. The KCA also reminded Sreesanth of the support he received during his darkest times, with officials even visiting him in prison.
Heated Exchange on Kerala Cricket’s Legacy:
Sreesanth further escalated the conflict by challenging the KCA to name any other international players they had produced apart from Sanju Samson. This prompted the KCA to issue a sharp rebuttal, listing several Kerala players who have achieved notable success:
- Sajna Sajeevan
- Minnumani
- Asha Shobana
- Joshitha V.J. – Member of the Under-19 World Cup-winning team
- Najla CMC – Currently with the Under-19 team
- Mohammed Inan – Part of the Under-19 Asia Cup team
By highlighting these players, the KCA emphasized that Kerala cricket’s success extends far beyond Sreesanth’s narrow perspective.
The ongoing conflict between S. Sreesanth and the Kerala Cricket Association shows no signs of cooling down. While Sreesanth remains vocal about his support for Sanju Samson, the KCA is determined to protect its reputation and highlight its contribution to Kerala cricket. This latest dispute adds yet another chapter to the complex relationship between Sreesanth and the KCA.
What are your thoughts on this controversy? Share your opinions in the comments below.
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