New Delhi: A 5-match T-20 series is going on between India and South Africa. The fourth match of this series is to be played in Lucknow. Earlier, India’s Test and ODI team captain Shubman Gill got injured.

Gill’s injury increases concern

Shubman Gill has suffered an injury to his thumb, due to which he will not be able to play the remaining two T20 matches of this series. Gill is also the vice-captain of the Indian team in the T20 format, so his injury has become a matter of concern for the team management. The T20 World Cup is now about one and a half months away, so this injury can affect the team’s strategy and opening options.

Samson forced to sit on the bench

Gill made a comeback in the T20 International format in the Asia Cup 2025 this year, but his performance was disappointing. In this series he scored 4, 0 and 28 runs in three innings. Due to poor form, Gill was getting continuous opportunities, while Sanju Samson has been sitting on the bench for a long time.

effect of fog on match

According to most beliefs, Gill suffered the injury during a practice session. All measures are being taken for his early recovery. After Gill’s injury, Sanju Samson may get a chance to return to the team, and it is believed that he can open with Abhishek Sharma. However, the match has not started yet due to fog.

Gill’s performance weak

Shubman Gill’s performance after returning to T-20 format has not been satisfactory. Since the Asia Cup, he has played 15 matches, in which he could score only 291 runs. During this period he did not score a single half century and scored more than 40 runs only twice.

Golden opportunity for Sanju Samson

Due to Gill’s absence, Sanju Samson may get a place in the playing-11. Samson has scored three centuries in the last 12 months, but due to Gill’s presence he has had less chances to open or play higher up the order. Now, in the absence of Gill, Sanju will get an opportunity to play in his favorite role.

Sanju’s best performance

Sanju Samson had cemented his place as an opener after the T20 World Cup 2024 and performed brilliantly. In 2024, he scored 436 runs in 13 matches, including three centuries, and averaged 43.60. Gill’s absence will give Sanju an opportunity to play in the opening or middle order, which will strengthen the team.

Claim for T-20 World Cup

For team management, this opportunity is important for both the players and the team. Gill’s absence will give Sanju a chance to showcase his ability, while the team will get a backup option. If Sanju makes proper use of this opportunity, his claim for the T20 World Cup will be strong.