Sanju Samson finds a surprise competitor [Source: X]Abhishek Sharma's untimely stomach infection came as a lifeline for Sanju Samson, as the Kerala batter finally seemed to make his way back into the India playing XI vs Namibia in the T20 World Cup 2026. However, in the latest twist, Samson may still warm the bench, with the Indian management considering Washington Sundar as a surprise replacement for Abhishek Sharma. Ace all-rounder Washington Sundar missed India's T20 World Cup opener against the United States due to a rib injury. However, the experienced campaigner has rejoined the team and might make his first appearance in the tournament against Namibia on Thursday, February 12. Washington Sundar threatens Sanju Samson's T20 World Cup comebackAs Abhishek Sharma is still recovering from a stomach infection, Sanju Samson had a golden opportunity to walk back into the India playing XI vs Namibia as a straightforward swap at the opening slot. However, Washington Sundar's comeback to the setup has complicated Samson's situation, with India planning to utilise the former's all-round attributes in the T20 World Cup. According to ESPNCricinfo, Washington Sundar has emerged as a surprise replacement choice, entering the race that had Sanju Samson as the lone runner. Ideally, Sundar should be a backup for Axar Patel, who bats down the order. However, considering Gautam Gambhir's love for multi-dimensional players and knack for throwing surprises, this left-field option certainly can't be ignored. Sanju Samson Vs Washington Sundar: India have to choose between form and utilitySanju Samson undoubtedly redeemed his T20I career after replacing Rohit Sharma in the Indian team following the latter's retirement. But his fate turned upside down when Shubman Gill made a comeback as the Indian vice-captain. Although Gill's persistent lean patch forced the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee to pick Samson for the T20 World Cup, the latter's dismal form paved the way for Ishan Kishan's dramatic return following a dream domestic season for Jharkhand. As things stand, Ishan Kishan is set to get a long run as India's T20I opener, while Sanju Samson has become the backup for either of the opening batters. Since 2025, the explosive Kerala batter has managed only 268 runs in 16 innings at a modest average of 16.75 and a strike rate of 128.23. Additionally, if reports are to be believed, he struggled during the net sessions in Delhi, jeopardising his comeback to the India playing XI vs Namibia. So, the grey area around Samson's recent form may open the door for Washington Sundar, who offers a valuable all-round option to the Men in Blue. Abhishek Sharma discharged, India likely to pick first-choice XI vs PakistanWhile the Namibia encounter may witness a number of changes in the Indian playing XI, the Men in Blue are expected to get first-choice players at their disposal for the high-octane match against Pakistan. The swashbuckling Abhishek Sharma has already been discharged from the hospital, while Jasprit Bumrah is bowling full throttle in the nets. In such a scenario, it will be interesting to see where the Indian management actually fits Sundar, whom they kept in their squad despite a long injury lay-off.
