Sanju Samson Set for Extended Layoff After Finger Fracture; To Miss Ranji Trophy Quarterfinal

Kerala's star wicketkeeper-batter, Sanju Samson, is set to miss his side's upcoming Ranji Trophy quarterfinal against Jammu and Kashmir, following an injury sustained during the fifth T20I against England. Samson fractured his right index finger after being struck by a fast delivery from Jofra Archer during the match at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

INJURY DETAILS AND RECOVERY TIMELINE

The 30-year-old's injury occurred in the early stages of the T20I match, with Archer's delivery clocking in at nearly 150 km/h. After taking a blow to his finger, Samson experienced swelling, and scans confirmed the fracture. He is now expected to be sidelined for 4 to 6 weeks. As per reports from PTI, he will begin his recovery and rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bangalore. Samson will need clearance from the NCA before making his return to competitive cricket.

ABSENCE FROM RANJI TROPHY AND IPL 2025 RETURN

Samson's injury means he will not feature in Kerala's crucial Ranji Trophy quarterfinal against Jammu and Kashmir, scheduled for February 8-12 in Pune. With his recovery timeline, he is unlikely to return in time for the ongoing domestic competition. However, it is expected that Samson will make his comeback in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season with Rajasthan Royals, where he has been a key player for several years.

DISAPPOINTING T20I SERIES PERFORMANCE

The injury occurred during a challenging T20I series for Samson. Despite entering the series with strong form—having scored three centuries in his last five T20I appearances—he struggled in the five-match series against England. The wicketkeeper-batter could only manage a total of 51 runs, with his best score being 26 in the opening match in Kolkata. He fell victim to the same short-pitched deliveries from Archer, Mark Wood, and Saqib Mahmood, which led to his dismissal multiple times.

FUTURE PROSPECTS AND INDIA RETURN

Samson was not included in India's squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against England or the Champions Trophy, further delaying his chances of a return to international cricket. His next possible appearance for the national team could come during the away series against Bangladesh in August.

Having also missed the Vijay Hazare Trophy due to his failure to attend the preparatory camp, the right-handed batter will now focus on his recovery and hopes for a return to both domestic and international cricket in the near future.