Thiruvananthapuram is buzzing with anticipation as India gears up for the decisive fifth T20I against New Zealand at the Greenfield Stadium on Saturday. With the T20 World Cup looming, this match represents the final opportunity for both sides to iron out flaws and sharpen their strategies.
India dominated the first three games but stumbled in the fourth, handing New Zealand a rare win. Now, the hosts are determined to reclaim momentum and seal the series in style. All eyes are on wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson, who will make his debut at his home ground. After a string of poor performances in the last four matches, this is Samson’s last shot to rediscover his form and prove his worth.
Friday’s practice session at the stadium drew massive crowds, including journalists, TV crews, and fervent fans eager to catch a glimpse of their local hero. Samson has struggled with timing since returning to the top order, particularly against pace bowlers. In the previous game, he fell to a sharp delivery from left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner, which turned to graze his outside edge and crash into the stumps.
During nets on Friday, Samson worked tirelessly on rectifying technical glitches. With Ishan Kishan poised to return, the pressure is immense. Coach Sitanshu Kotak offered support, noting, ‘Sanju is a senior player with immense talent and years in the team. Cricket has its ups and downs; he’ll bounce back.’
India has already clinched the series, and playing in Thiruvananthapuram makes Samson’s inclusion a near certainty. Having scored just 40 runs in four outings, he must deliver big in front of adoring home fans to secure his spot ahead of the World Cup.