Will Sanju Samson Shine as He Replaces Injured Shubman Gill in the 5th T20I?
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Synopsis
In a surprising twist, India's Sanju Samson steps in for the injured Shubman Gill, while Jasprit Bumrah and Washington Sundar return for the crucial fifth T20I against South Africa. With both teams eager for victory, the stakes couldn't be higher. Will India secure the series, or will South Africa level the playing field?
Key Takeaways
- Sanju Samson replaces the injured Shubman Gill.
- Jasprit Bumrah and Washington Sundar return to the team.
- The match is critical for the series, currently 2-1 in favor of India.
- The pitch may favor spin bowlers with its dry, cracked surface.
- Both teams are focused on their performance as they prepare for future competitions.
Ahmedabad, Dec 19 (NationPress) Sanju Samson steps in for the injured Shubman Gill, while Jasprit Bumrah and Washington Sundar make their return to India's lineup, as South Africa won the toss and opted to bowl first in the fifth and final T20I at the Narendra Modi Stadium this Friday.
Currently, India holds a 2-1 lead in the five-match series, following the abandonment of the fourth T20I in Lucknow due to heavy fog. Meanwhile, Sundar replaces Kuldeep Yadav, and Bumrah returns to his home ground in place of Harshit Rana.
A statement from the BCCI revealed that Gill sustained an impact injury on his right foot while batting in the nets on December 16 in Lucknow. Though his condition is improving, he remains unavailable for selection for this match.
“The wicket appears favorable, there shouldn't be dew, and we aim to score runs early. The stadium is nearly filled. We have to focus on the game, especially since the series is at stake, but we also want the players to express themselves and enjoy playing,” stated India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav.
On the other hand, South African captain Aiden Markram announced that left-arm spinner George Linde replaces fast bowler Anrich Nortje. “The pitch looks likely to have some dew, which may help the ball come onto the bat better later. We are eager to finish the tour on a high note,” he expressed.
Tonight’s playing surface features short square boundaries of 63m and 65m, with the straight boundary measuring 71m. The black soil pitch seems dry yet firm, suggesting potential assistance for spin bowlers.
Playing XIs
India: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Washington Sundar, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, and Arshdeep Singh
South Africa: Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Aiden Markram (captain), Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Donovan Ferreira, George Linde, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Lungi Ngidi, and Ottniel Baartman
Point of View
It's clear that injuries can significantly impact team dynamics. Sanju Samson's inclusion highlights India's depth while demonstrating resilience. South Africa's strategy to bowl first indicates their confidence in chasing. The series is delicately poised, and every match contributes to the larger picture as both teams prepare for future challenges.
NationPress
19/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Sanju Samson replacing Shubman Gill?
Sanju Samson is stepping in for Shubman Gill due to an impact injury to his right foot sustained during practice.
Who are the other players returning to the Indian squad?
Jasprit Bumrah and Washington Sundar are returning to the Indian lineup for this match.
What is the current series status?
India is leading the five-match series 2-1 after the fourth T20I was abandoned due to fog.
What did Suryakumar Yadav say about the match?
Suryakumar Yadav emphasized the importance of expressing oneself and enjoying the game, despite the series being on the line.
What changes have been made to South Africa's lineup?
George Linde has been brought in for Anrich Nortje in South Africa's squad.
