The talk of the town, Sanju Samson is getting praised by the ex-cricketers and cricket pundits for his back-to-back outstanding performances in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. Samson's both the half-centuries turned out to be match-winning for Rajasthan Royals (RR).
While there is already a lot of discussion on the inclusion of Samson in the Indian cricket team, former Australia cricketer Shane Warne has said he is expecting Samson to play all the formats for India. In an interaction with ANI, Warne also talked about his role as a mentor for the Royals in IPL 2020.
"Sanju Samson, I mean I have been saying it for a long time now, Sanju should be playing all forms of the game for India. He is such a quality player, he's shown that class again in the first game and I hope he has a consistent tournament this year.
"If he has a consistent tournament this year I think you'll see him representing India in all forms of the game. He's just such a talented player, I've seen a lot of talented cricketers in my time but watching Samson bat, in the nets being around him, speaking to him over the years and now watching him evolve I mean he is something else.
"He is a very special talent and I hope he hits the international stage very soon," added the 51-year-old.
Warner, who led Rajasthan to IPL title in the inaugural season in 2008, said he has a special bond with the franchise. He is looking forward to staying involved in the franchise because of his love for them.
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"I feel like I've got a spiritual connection with the Royals. Back in 2008, it was just such a wonderful time, and every now and then you connect and get involved with something that is super special and is magic," Warne said.
"The squad we had in 2008 produced some magic and lifetime friendships. I love the Royals and have always been a Royals and grateful for the opportunity to be back working with the Royals in this capacity and I hope it continues.
"I hope there's always a role for me here at the Royals because I'm passionate and just love Rajasthan Royals very very much," he added.
Commenting on the ongoing tournament and Royals' side, Warne said he is confident of their chances. The talent RR has is making the Aussie back them for the IPL title.
When asked whether the Royals' squad looks balanced as compared to other seasons in the past, Warne said: "I think the squad looks great, some great young talent, some experienced players, good variety in the bowling attack, power hitters and manipulators of the ball.
"Some good players of spin and pace, a good combination of left and right-handers. So, I think the squad is there, it's about them being able to deliver.
"So if we can deliver our skills and I feel it could be the Royals' year this year in 2020.
"Hopefully, Ben Stokes would play a part this year, he's a big loss and our thoughts are with him but you know add Ben Stokes to the team that played the other night and it looks a very very good side," he added.
Warne would be observing more this season and he will pass on tips only if needed. "My mentor role, it's a bit different this year. I'll be sitting in the stands, watching the games, not in the dugout.
"So, I won't have anything to do with anything actual in-game. I would be watching just like anybody else and then I'll be sitting with Andrew McDonald and Steve Smith after each game, see if I saw anything, talk to them and listen to them talk and their ideas and add some of my thoughts.
"So that part and then being around training, motivating the group, helping out individuals in the team, trying to get the best out of them and helping Andrew McDonald and Steve Smith in any which way possible way," Warne said.
(With ANI Inputs)
