India’s T20 World Cup campaign kicked off on 4th February, with the team playing their lone warm-up match against South Africa. Ahead of the tournament, a key question revolved around Abhishek Sharma’s opening partner—long held to be Sanju Samson. However, the warm-up game has provided clarity.
Ishan Kishan Replaces Samson as Opening Partner
Ishan Kishan, making a comeback after a brief period out of the team, was handed the role of opening alongside Abhishek Sharma. This development comes as a setback for Sanju Samson, who has struggled in recent times. During India’s T20 series against New Zealand, Samson managed only 46 runs across five matches, effectively losing his claim to the opening spot.
Kishan Shines on Return
Ishan Kishan wasted no time in making an impact. In his recent outings leading to the World Cup, he scored 215 runs across four innings, boasting a strike rate exceeding 213. His performances included a century and a half-century, reinforcing his credentials as India’s preferred opener.
Suryakumar Yadav Confirms New Opening Pair
During the warm-up, senior batter Suryakumar Yadav confirmed that Kishan and Sharma would open the innings. “We are batting first tonight. I’ve heard the dew might come later, so we want to challenge our bowlers. Tonight, we aim to test ourselves. Ishan and Abhishek will open. Playing comes with responsibilities and constant pressure, but having the support around you helps immensely. We want to continue doing what we’ve been practicing over the past year and a half and maintain those good habits,” Yadav said.
With this lineup change, it appears Sanju Samson will remain on the bench for the entire T20 World Cup, as India moves forward with a reinvigorated opening combination.
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