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Sanju Samson Batting: Today is Sanju Samson’s last chance to regain his form before the T20 World Cup. The final match of the T20 series between India and New Zealand will be played in Thiruvananthapuram, where Sanju Samson’s scoring will be crucial. If his bat fails in this match, he may be benched for the upcoming ICC tournament. Ishan Kishan can be Abhishek Sharma’s opening partner.
The fifth and final match of the ongoing T20I series between India and New Zealand will be played today at the Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. After winning the first three matches, the Indian team lost the fourth match. Team India will aim to return to winning ways in the final match. This is the last chance for both the teams to iron out their shortcomings and strengthen their preparations ahead of the T20 World Cup. India’s opening batsman Sanju Samson, who has been a flop in the series so far, also has his last chance to regain form and prove himself today. If Samson’s performance fails today, the management may drop him from the playing XI for the T20 World Cup. His replacement, Ishan Kishan, who has played some explosive innings since his comeback after two years, may be given the responsibility to open the innings.
Ishan Kishan is likely to return to the Indian playing XI for the fifth T20I, but all eyes will be on Sanju Samson, who will make his debut at home. Sanju has failed in the last four matches. This final match is Sanju’s last chance to regain form and prove his mettle once again.
Sanju Samson’s bat is not going
A day before the match, Sanju had a frenzy at the Greenfield Stadium. Dozens of journalists and TV crews gathered to watch their hometown hero in action. Fans were also present in large numbers. Samson has struggled to find his time since returning to the top order. He finds it difficult to time the fast bowlers. In the previous match, he was dismissed by a quick delivery from left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner. The ball turned and hit the stumps with an outside edge.
Sanju Samson
During the practice session before the final T20I, Samson tried to overcome his technical flaws. Samson must seize this last chance before the World Cup, otherwise Ishan Kishan will overtake him as a wicketkeeper-batsman. Indian team has already won the series. Thiruvananthapuram is his hometown. So, Sanju Samson’s place in the playing XI is almost certain.
Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak spoke about Samson’s talent ahead of the match, saying, “Sanju is a senior player. He is very talented and has been in the team for a long time. He may not have scored as many runs as expected recently, but that is the nature of cricket. You score big and then go through bad periods.” Samson has scored just 40 runs in his last four matches. Hence, he will have a golden opportunity to retain his place in the team and showcase his excellent form to his fans at his home ground.
Sanju Samson’s last chance today? If the bat does not work, water may have to be poured in the T20 World Cup
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