Shashi Tharoor Eagerly Awaits Sanju Samson’s T20I Homecoming
Shashi Tharoor, the Congress MP, has expressed his excitement for the upcoming T20I match between India and New Zealand. The final match of the series will take place on Saturday at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. Tharoor specifically highlighted the significance of the event for local player Sanju Samson.
Shashi Tharoor’s Anticipation
In a statement to ANI, Tharoor conveyed his eagerness to see Samson perform in front of his home crowd. He noted that the series has been thrilling and that the final match adds to the excitement. “It has been a good series, and last time New Zealand won. This is a chance for India to turn things around,” said Tharoor.
Expectations for the Match
Tharoor emphasized the importance of the game as not only a series finale but also as India’s last international match before the T20 World Cup. He remarked, “The whole stadium is going to be full. I’m told all the tickets are sold out. It’s a huge occasion.”
- Match Venue: Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram
- Date: Saturday
- Series Status: India leads 3-1
- Significance: Final match before T20 World Cup
Player Performance Insights
Sanju Samson has had a challenging series, managing only 40 runs across four matches. In contrast, Ishan Kishan, who missed the fourth T20I due to a minor injury, had previously shown exceptional form. He scored 76 runs off 32 balls in the second T20I, guiding India to a successful chase.
The team management may consider reintroducing Kishan into the playing XI, either as an extra batter or to replace Samson, who has struggled to find his rhythm. As both teams prepare, the importance of this match looms large, promising an exhilarating climax to the series.
Looking Ahead to the T20 World Cup
With the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 on the horizon, both teams are likely to field their strongest lineups. This match serves as a crucial opportunity for India to fine-tune their roster and strategies ahead of the global tournament.
Tharoor concluded by wishing Sanju Samson and the Indian team success, expressing hope for a competitive and memorable contest.