Sanju Samson remains a focal point ahead of India's next assignment in the T20 World Cup 2026, as Abhishek Sharma's health issue has brought him in the mix of a selection.
India are set to face Namibia in their second group stage match today (February 12) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. After a win against USA, the co-hosts will be aiming to continue their momentum ahead of the crucial clash against Pakistan.
Samson's pre-tournament form presented a blend of promise and inconsistency. He delivered aggressive outings in domestic T20 competitions but averaged below 20 in the recent bilateral series against New Zealand. Team management has underscored his importance, focusing on bolstering his readiness for high-pressure scenarios. At 31, with
Ishan Kishan entrenched as primary keeper, Samson requires substantive contributions to solidify his international standing.
Sanju Samson opportunity after Abhishek Sharma issue
Coming into the T20 World Cup, Samson lost his place to Kishan in the New Zealand series, where he managed only 46 runs across five matches.
But Abhishek Sharma's hospitalization due to a stomach infection represents the pivotal development, rendering his participation uncertain. Samson emerges as the frontrunner to open along with Kishan for this match. Sharma was discharged from the hospital on Wednesday (February 11), but management is unlikely to rush the southpaw.
Will Sanju Samson play Today?
Sanju Samson is set to play in the match against Namibia today, which has presented an unexpected yet huge opportunity for him. Samson will be handed his chance at the top of the order amid Sharma's absence.
The Kerala batter may have his final chance to rack up numbers under his name, as another failure would firmly take him out of the India scene, not just for this T20 World Cup but beyond. The India player has sweated out at the stadium in the last two sessions, and also looked in decent touch.
