Is Sanju Samson Playing Today in IND vs ZIM T20 World Cup Match?

The Indian cricket team is in a do-or-die situation in the T20 World Cup 2026 after facing a big loss against South Africa in their Super 8 opening match. This wasn’t just a loss; but the 76-run margin has left a severe impact on India's NRR, which has gone down to -3.80.

The must-win match against Zimbabwe is just a few hours away now. However, there's a query around Sanju Samson T20 World Cup 2026 presence, especially for this match. After the continuous failure of India’s top order, Samson can be considered in this match and pair with Abhishek Sharma as the opening pair.

Is Sanju Samson Playing Today Against Zimbabwe?

A viral video of Sanju Samson grinding it out in the nets at the MA Chidambaram Stadium has ignited rumors of him coming back in the playing XI for India’s must-win clash against Zimbabwe. The current opening pair has not been up to the mark for Team India, and the team management might be seriously considering a change to keep their ICC T20 World Cup semi-final hopes alive.

Before the IND vs ZIM T20 World Cup 2026 match, India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak also it clear that Samson is in discussions to be selected for this game. However, it remains to be seen how he can break into this powerful batting order.

Bringing Samson back as an opener might be a risk. But this move aims to break the left-hander trap that has affected India’s top order against off-spin bowling. Samson is one of the best wicketkeepers in India and is also a safe fielder. His ability to stand deep in the batting crease and generate power while being on the back foot can help him to take on spinners like Sikandar Raza in the IND vs ZIM T20 World Cup match.

Samson can replace the all-rounder Washington Sundar, whose recent form has not been great. With Axar Patel also likely to return to provide a more reliable all-round spin option, Samson’s inclusion provides the essential batting stability India needs to keep their third T20 World Cup dreams alive.

Sanju Samson's Record Against Finger Spinners

One problem that has been creating difficulties for the Indian batters is finger spinners, and as the batting line-up is filled with a lot of left handers like Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Tilak Varma. During this period, India's scoring rate against the finger spinners has been low. Meanwhile, Samson's strike rate against the finger spinners is above 170, which is exceptionally good.
Samson is one of the most dangerous batsmen in the world and his natural bat swing helps him in creating some extra room to send the ball out of the ground. As this match is going to take place in Chepauk, which is naturally spin-friendly surface, the Indian team can benefit from someone who can counter the off-spinners well.