After reaching a match-winning century in the last T20I of the recently concluded three-match series against Bangladesh, Sanju Samson has expressed a strong desire to broaden his horizons and represent India in Test cricket.

In a media interaction in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday, Samson shared his ambitions of becoming an all-format player for the national team.

“I believe I have the skills to succeed in red-ball cricket and I don’t want to limit myself to just white-ball formats,” Samson said.

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His immediate aim is to earn a place in the Indian Test team, after consistent performances in domestic red-ball tournaments like the Ranji Trophy.

A leadership group told me to focus on red ball cricket: Sanju Samson

Samson revealed that before the Duleep Trophy, India’s leadership group had encouraged him to focus more on red-ball cricket.

“They told me I was being considered for Test cricket and advised me to take it seriously and play more Ranji Trophy matches,” Samson explained, reflecting on how this directive motivated him to change his approach.

The Kerala-born cricketer, who recently trained with Rahul Dravid and Zubin Bharucha at the Rajasthan Royals Academy, spoke about the preparation that led to his century in the Duleep Trophy.

“After the series against Sri Lanka, I worked on my game with Dravid Sir and Bharucha. The century in the Duleep Trophy gave me a lot of confidence as I faced some of the best players in the country,” he shared.

Samson also thanked the Indian team management for supporting him despite his difficulties during the series against Sri Lanka. He acknowledged the support of captain Suryakumar Yadav and coach Gautam Gambhir, whom he credits for his success in the series against Bangladesh.

“Surya is a good communicator and there is clarity in what he expects from the players. Gautham bhai has always believed in me and that makes playing cricket more fun,” Samson said, appreciating his leadership.

Reflecting on his memorable innings against Bangladesh, where he hit five sixes in one over, Samson attributed it to his fearless approach.

“It was a dream come true. I believe in playing cricket without fear and that day everything fell into place. “I haven’t stopped watching replays of that century,” he added proudly.

As Samson continues to impress in limited overs formats, his eyes remain firmly set on a Test cap, hoping to add another dimension to his growing legacy in Indian cricket.