Sanju Samson and Suryakumar Yadav at the airport. (Download video) NEW DELHI: India’s final stop before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup took them to Thiruvananthapuram and the arrival itself turned into a moment when captain Suryakumar Yadav ensured that hometown hero Sanju Samson had all eyes on him. With the fifth and final T20I against New Zealand a dead rubber, the focus has shifted firmly to Samson – both for emotional and selection reasons.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SIGN UP NOW!A crowd favorite in Kerala, Samson walks a slim line. His last T20 fifty came against Oman in the Asia Cup in September and four low scores in the ongoing series put his World Cup role under scrutiny. Although he remains a part of the squad, the presence of Ishan Kishan as a competitive wicket-keeper batsman has made the battle for a place in the playing eleven tougher.
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As the Indian team landed in Thiruvananthapuram, Suryakumar was in a playful mood and theatrically made way for Samson at the airport. “Get out of the way. Move aside. Make way please. Don’t disturb Chetta,” said Surya, mimicking the arrival of the VIP as a shy and slightly embarrassed Samson tried to hide his laughter.The banter continued. “No, no, no photos,” Surya joked before turning to Samson and adding, “Landing in God’s Country.”“I feel great. I always feel great, but this time is very special,” Samson replied.“Special?” Surya asked.“Yes,” came the reply as the act continued to the exit.WATCH: Surya’s banter with SanjuOnce outside, the scene turned electric. When Samson stepped out, a sea of fans erupted, cheers followed him all the way to the team bus, underscoring his superstar status in Kerala.With India about to open their World Cup campaign against the USA, the team management may see this as the perfect opportunity to let Samson rediscover his rhythm – buoyed by the home support.
