A thought may be subjective in most cases, but one may not exaggerate it if he/she says the match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Thursday will be the biggest for Sanju Samson, if he plays.
With India’s semi-final hopes hanging in the balance following a 76-run loss to South Africa, speculation is rife over whether wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson will feature in the crucial Super 8 clash against Zimbabwe at MA Chidambaram Stadium.
Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak hinted at potential lineup adjustments ahead of the February 26 match, noting that discussions are ongoing to address top-order inconsistencies. Samson, who has been a reserve option in the squad, is viewed as a strong contender to add firepower and break the left-handed dominance in the opening slots.
Reports indicate Samson could replace an underperforming player, such as opener Abhishek Sharma or middle-order batter Tilak Varma, to provide right-hand balance and aggressive intent against Zimbabwe’s spinners. Samson has been in the mix throughout the tournament, with team management acknowledging his form in nets and readiness for inclusion.
India’s think tank, including former players offering input, appears keen on tactical shifts to bolster the batting unit. While no final decision has been confirmed, sources suggest Samson’s experience and finishing ability make him a likely pick in this do-or-die scenario.
Sanju Samson and a long-term Chennai Love Story’s First Chapter
Sanju Samson, given the quality he possesses, has the potential to overcome adversities. The Kerala batter has always struggled with consistency, but his skill and class coupled with resilience, have always recuperated his India graph. Sanju has missed out on his opportunity to start as India’s first-choice wicketkeeper in this T20 World Cup, but he is on the verge of another opportunity again.
But why is this a big one for the Trivandrum boy? Because of the context and the sheer magnitude of this encounter. India, struggling in this World Cup after the South Africa encounter, beckons a hero at the top of the order. Sanju, who is likely to open the innings, can be the dasher the team desperately needs. If the Chennai Super Kings player can deliver a top-notch knock, he would not just do a favour to the team, but a massive boost to his career as well.
Sanju was seen participating in an intense practice session on Wednesday, as he had a prolonged batting and wicketkeeping session, indicative of his inclusion in the playing eleven.
After more than a decade-long stint with the Rajasthan Royals, Sanju made his much-desired move to CSK ahead of IPL 2026. And a memorable evening in Blue can pave the way for a blossoming love in Yellow!