Samson Set to Step In if Abhishek Misses Namibia Clash

India may be forced into a change at the top of the order ahead of their T20 World Cup fixture against Namibia, with Abhishek Sharma still recovering after being hospitalised with a stomach bug earlier this week.

Abhishek has since been discharged and is said to be improving, but team management will take a late call on his availability. Should he fall short of full fitness, Sanju Samson appears the frontrunner to replace him in the XI.

Training sessions at the Arun Jaitley Stadium have offered strong hints. Samson spent extended periods in the nets over the past two days, including a lengthy session against Jasprit Bumrah, who has also returned after illness. Watching closely were head coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Suryakumar Yadav and chief selector Ajit Agarkar, a sign that the reserve opener is firmly in contention.

Samson has prior backing from the current leadership group. In 2024 he responded to renewed faith with a blistering 40 ball T20I century against Bangladesh. However, his returns since the start of 2025 have dipped, with modest numbers forcing India to prefer Ishan Kishan at the top before the tournament.

A left field alternative could be Washington Sundar, recently back in training after recovering from a rib injury. His inclusion would offer balance and flexibility, though it would also reshape the batting combination.

India have emphasised adaptability in their batting order, particularly through the middle overs where Tilak Varma and Suryakumar have anchored effectively. But clarity at the top remains crucial.

With another training day to assess Abhishek’s condition, India must decide whether to stick or shuffle as they look to maintain momentum against Namibia.

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