Sanju Samson’s much-anticipated T20 World Cup debut had an explosive start but a brief stay at the crease and it sparked an unexpected reaction in the Namibia dugout. Former India head coach Gary Kirsten now working as a consultant with Namibia was caught laughing moments after Samson’s dismissal during the group-stage clash in New Delhi.
Batting first at the Arun Jaitley Stadium India looked set for a flying start as Samson smashed three sixes and a boundary in his opening seven balls. With Abhishek Sharma unavailable the right-hander appeared ready to make a strong statement at the top of the order. However the promising innings came to an early halt when Samson chipped a delivery straight to deep midwicket falling for 22 off just eight balls.
The soft dismissal handed Namibia a crucial breakthrough just when India seemed to be taking control. Television cameras quickly focused on the Namibia camp where players celebrated the wicket. Kirsten initially maintained a serious expression before breaking into laughter as the catch was completed suggesting satisfaction with a well-executed plan.
Namibia’s tactical approach once again came into focus as the dismissal appeared to be the result of pre-match planning. Kirsten who knows Indian batters inside out from his coaching days has been closely involved in Namibia’s strategies throughout the tournament. Similar methods had earlier worked against Abhishek Sharma who was dismissed early by the USA using a comparable field setup.
Despite Samson’s short cameo India kept the momentum going through Ishan Kishan who played a blistering knock scoring 61 off just 24 deliveries including a rapid half-century. Namibia however clawed their way back into the contest as their spinners tightened the screws and picked up wickets in quick succession.
While Samson’s dismissal drew attention it is unlikely to impact India’s selection plans moving forward. His brief innings showed intent and aggression and the Indian camp will take confidence from the overall batting performance despite the early setback.
