Sanju Samson eyes T20 World Cup debut as Abhishek Sharma remains doubtful for India vs Namibia encounter

India’s opener and wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson will most likely make his T20 World Cup debut for India against Namibia in New Delhi, as star batter Abhishek Sharma continues to battle a stomach infection, which is likely to keep him away from cricketing action for a few days. The illness has raised doubts over his availability for Thursday’s match in Delhi.

Notably, Abhishek was hospitalised after the Indian team’s arrival in New Delhi, and although he has since been discharged, the food poisoning is likely to take some time for him to be fully ready. If he isn’t fit in time, Samson is poised to make a return to the line-up that will take the field on Thursday, a chance that could redefine his career after he was dropped for Ishan Kishan due to poor form.

Samson was seen taking extended net sessions ahead of the game, facing bowlers including Jasprit Bumrah as team management closely monitored his preparation. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate addressed the wicketkeeper batter’s current situation and what the team management thinks of him. 

“Look, at this level, you need to be honest and transparent. And the way the cards have fallen, Sanju’s had all the support that he could possibly have had. He went through that phase where we tried him in the middle order, and then he obviously had the reprieve where he came back,” ten Doeschate was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

“And now it’s just getting Sanju feeling well within himself again, understanding where he fits into the scheme of things now: A, as an injury replacement, B, as a form replacement. You’re not going to have any hassles with Sanju – solid guy, he’s good around the group, he’s training well, he’s a good vibe around the group, and that’s what we expect from everyone in the team,” he concluded.

Sundar also a contender for opener’s role

Meanwhile, Washington Sundar has also emerged as a potential opening option for the Men in Blue since Ishan Kishan also copped a blow to his body during the net session on the eve of the game. Although Kishan returned to the nets after a short consultation with the team physio, the team management will not want to risk making a minor injury into a major concern going ahead into the twenty-team tournament.