Former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar has shed light on Sanju Samson potentially opening in the T20 World Cup clash against Namibia. Samson could only manage 46 runs against New Zealand in five games and thus was dropped from the playing XI against the USA.

Abhishek Sharma, on the other hand, was dismissed for a golden duck against the Americans. The left-hander had scored 182 runs against New Zealand in five games but was struggling with stomach illness after the game against the US.

Bangar said it is good that Sanju Samson has been continuously with the team.

Sanjay Bangar said on Star Sports, “At times, your fortune changes and such an opportunity has gotten created because Sanju Samson’s form hasn’t been that good. He has got many opportunities as well,” the former India all-rounder responded.

“However, the good thing is that he has been with the team continuously. He is in that environment. So a game can give you a lease of life. The expectation is that, if he gets a chance, he plays his natural game, for which he is known, at the top of the order,” he added.

The former Indian all-rounder noted that Samson has been playing continuously and thus it should not be a problem.

“Very important. The good thing is that Sanju Samson has also got many matches. He missed the last match for sure, but apart from that, he has played cricket continuously and he has been in the scheme of things. So I don’t think it’s a big problem,” he responded.

Bangar said Samson will be motivated to prove his mettle in the absence of Abhishek Sharma.

“Sanju Samson is a quality player and he can get a chance to bat at the top of the order if Abhishek isn’t available for the match. He knows how important it is for him to succeed. He will definitely be extremely motivated. All players playing one or two matches, I see that as a positive,” Bangar observed.

India will next take on Namibia at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi, on Thursday.