Is Sanju Samson Playing Today’s Match – India vs South Africa 4th T20I?

Sanju Samson is playing in the fourth T20I against South Africa in Lucknow on Tuesday, stepping in as opener after Shubman Gill was ruled out with a toe injury.

India enter the match with confidence, leading the five-match T20 series 2-1. The fourth game at the Ekana Cricket Stadium gives the hosts a big chance to seal the series before the final match.

The series began with a one-sided contest in Cuttack, where India crushed South Africa by 101 runs. The visitors bounced back in New Chandigarh, winning the second T20I by 51 runs to level the series.

India regained control in the third T20I at Dharamshala. Chasing the target with ease, they won by seven wickets and moved ahead 2-1 with two matches still to play.

All eyes in Lucknow will be on Sanju Samson, who has been drafted into the playing XI after Gill picked up a toe injury during a training session. Gill has been ruled out of this match and is also likely to miss the series finale.

Samson will open the innings, a role he has played in the past with success. Known for his clean hitting and quick starts, he brings attacking intent at the top, something India will look to use in the powerplay.

For Samson, this match is also a big personal opportunity. With the T20 World Cup in 2026 in sight, strong performances now can help him strengthen his place in India’s plans going forward.

India will hope Samson can set the tone early and give the middle order freedom to play their natural game. His experience and calm approach could be key on a pitch that may get slower as the match progresses.

South Africa face a must-win situation. A loss in Lucknow would end the series, while a win would push it to a deciding fifth T20I.

The toss for the match in Lucknow was also delayed due to fog.