Key Highlights
- Shashi Tharoor excited for Sanju Samson’s homecoming in the fifth and final T20I match.
- India and New Zealand series is set to conclude at Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram.
- Sanju Samson expected to play before his home crowd, with India leading 3-1.
- T20 World Cup 2026 preparations intensify as teams field their strongest available XI.
The Anticipation Builds: Sanju Samson’s Homecoming
With the fifth and final T20I match between India and New Zealand just around the corner, Shashi Tharoor’s excitement is palpable. Speaking to ANI, the Congress MP shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming fixture at Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.
A Special Moment for Fans
Tharoor highlighted the special occasion of Sanju Samson taking the field before his home supporters. “I am really looking forward to Sanju playing before his home crowd,” he said. For fans in Thiruvananthapuram, this is a moment of anticipation and joy.
A Strong Finish to an Engaging Series
India has already secured a 3-1 lead in the series, making the match a crucial one for both teams. As preparations intensify for the T20 World Cup 2026, this fixture is not just about sealing the series but also ensuring that India’s stars are in top form.
Preparations and Lineups
Both sides are expected to field their strongest available XI. Ishan Kishan missed the fourth T20I due to a niggle, prompting India to go in with just six specialist batters. Arshdeep Singh came in for Kishan during that match.
The team management is likely to consider bringing Kishan back into the playing XI, either as an additional batter or as a replacement for the out-of-form Samson. Ishan Kishan was in scintillating touch earlier in the series, smashing 76 off just 32 balls during India’s successful 209-run chase in the second T20I at Raipur.
A Fitting Climb to the T20 World Cup
The match is also seen as a strong finish to this series, with Tharoor stressing its importance. “The whole stadium is going to be full, I’m told all the tickets are sold out. It’s a huge occasion,” he added. This match will be a fitting climax to the five-match series and India’s final international outing before the T20 World Cup.
With the Greenfield International Stadium set to host this crucial match, Sanju Samson’s homecoming promises to be an eventful one for fans in Thiruvananthapuram. The stadium is expected to be packed to capacity, making it a memorable occasion for all involved.
