In a significant development for Indian cricket, Sanju Samson, the explosive batsman known for his big-hitting prowess, is scheduled to undergo treatment for a mucus cyst on his lower lip. This medical procedure means that Samson will be absent from Kerala’s squad for the third round of the Ranji Trophy, which commences on Saturday, October 26. The timing of this treatment is particularly notable as it closely precedes India’s high-stakes tour of South Africa, where four T20 Internationals are slated to take place. Despite this hiccup, Samson is expected to recover promptly and be part of the Indian squad traveling to the Rainbow Nation.
Sanju Samson’s decision to proceed with the treatment before the South Africa T20 tour underscores his commitment and his readiness to perform at the international level. The T20 International series is scheduled from November 8 to 13, providing Samson with a small window to recover fully and join his teammates. His recent performances have boosted his place in the team’s ranks, particularly after his record-breaking maiden T20 century against Bangladesh in Hyderabad earlier this month. In a spectacular display, Samson smashed a hundred off just 40 balls, helping India reach a towering total of 297/6 in their 20 overs.
Following his remarkable performance in the T20 series against Bangladesh, Samson immediately made himself available for Kerala in the domestic Ranji Trophy circuit. Unfortunately, his first-class match against Karnataka in Alur was severely disrupted by inclement weather conditions. Only 50 overs of play were possible, during which Kerala managed to post a total of 161 for three. Samson contributed to the innings with a composed 15 runs off 13 balls, including two boundaries and a six, before rain halted play permanently.
A Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) official confirmed that Samson would miss the forthcoming third round of the Ranji Trophy against Bengal in Kolkata due to his medical procedure.
. The KCA and his teammates will certainly feel his absence as Kerala aims to maintain its competitive edge. Currently, Kerala stands strong in second place in Group C, having secured a win and a draw in their two preceding matches.
Although the official announcement regarding India’s T20I squad for the South Africa tour is yet to be made, Samson’s inclusion is widely anticipated. The timing of his treatment suggests his eagerness to focus on India’s international commitments while balancing domestic responsibilities. Should Samson get the nod for the South Africa series, Kerala will miss his services for two additional Ranji Trophy matches, facing Uttar Pradesh from November 6 to 9 and Haryana from November 13 to 16.
Samson’s disruptive T20 innings and promise in the shortest format of the game have brought him under the spotlight. His recent innings against Bangladesh is now part of discussions about his potential as a game-changing player against tough international competition. Observers of Indian cricket are enthusiastic about Samson’s prospects, expecting that he will be a key figure in the upcoming matches against South Africa, adding depth to India’s batting lineup. As Samson prepares for his treatment and recuperation, the cricket fraternity hopes for his swift return to the playing field, augmenting India’s firepower.
Sanju Samson’s journey underscores the complexities faced by professional athletes in managing health alongside rigorous sporting commitments. His decision to prioritize treatment reflects his foresight and dedication to maintaining peak physical condition for future challenges. With the South Africa tour on the horizon, Samson’s recovery and readiness will be crucial for India as they aim to assert dominance in the international T20 arena.
