New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) – Indian wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson has been ruled out of action for over a month after suffering a fractured index finger during the fifth T20I against England in Mumbai. The injury, sustained from a Jofra Archer delivery clocking nearly 150 kmph, has also forced him out of Kerala’s Ranji Trophy quarterfinal clashagainst Jammu and Kashmir, scheduled in Pune from February 8-12.
Following the injury, Samson has returned to Thiruvananthapuram and will begin training only after completing his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). His return to competitive cricket hinges on receiving clearance from the NCA.
"Sanju has fractured his right index finger, and it will take around five to six weeks before he can resume proper training. There is no possibility of him playing the Ranji Trophy quarterfinal," a BCCI source told PTI on condition of anonymity.
With this timeline, Samson’s return is expected in the IPL 2024, where he leads the Rajasthan Royals.
Tough Series Against England & Injury Setback
Samson’s T20I series against England was underwhelming, with just 51 runs in five matches, his highest being 26 in the first game at Eden Gardens. He struggled against England’s pace attack, frequently falling to short-pitched deliveries from Archer, Mark Wood, and Saqib Mahmood within the Powerplay.Despite entering the series in stellar form, having smashed three centuries in seven games against Bangladesh and South Africa, Samson’s performances failed to make an impact. Additionally, he missed out on a Champions Trophy selection due to not featuring in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
With no white-ball matches scheduled for India post the Champions Trophy until July, Samson’s next opportunity in national colors might only come during India’s away tour of Bangladesh in August. Until then, the IPL remains his best chance to make a strong comeback.