The India-New Zealand T20 series reaches its climax at Thiruvananthapuram’s Greenfield Stadium this Saturday, offering both teams a crucial dress rehearsal before the T20 World Cup. India, leading 3-1 after a shock loss in the fourth match, aims to end on a high note.

Local star Sanju Samson stands at a career crossroads. Batting at the top after his comeback, he’s managed only 40 runs across four innings, battling timing issues against express pace. His dismissal in the last game—a turning ball from Santner that clipped the edge—highlighted ongoing struggles. Yet, in his hometown, with the series secured, selectors are likely to persist with him one final time.

The stadium was electric on Friday, swarming with media, broadcast teams, and thousands of supporters hyped for Samson’s action. In practice, he focused on fine-tuning his technique, a desperate bid to silence doubters. Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak backed him firmly: ‘He’s talented and experienced; bad patches are part of the game. Expect fireworks soon.’

Ishan Kishan’s potential return adds urgency—Kishan edges ahead as the preferred keeper-batsman. For Samson, this isn’t just a match; it’s a referendum on his T20 credentials. Home advantage and fan fervor could spark the explosion needed to reclaim his place in India’s World Cup plans.