High fever, no worries: India's Asia Cup-bound star lands up on field straight from hospital to play KCL match

Looks like India's wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson is going to extraordinary lengths to secure his spot in India's playing XI in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, which is set to start from September 9. Despite suffering from a viral fever, he reportedly left a hospital to play in the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) for the Kochi Blue Tigers. Samson's determination to prove his form is evident, especially with his place in the Indian playing XI for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 under threat from the return of vice-captain Shubman Gill.

Sanju Samson leaves hospital to play KCL match

According to reports from MyKhel, Samson was at a Trivandrum hospital on Thursday, August 22 for primary treatment before heading directly to Greenfield Stadium to join his team. He was spotted on the field during the Kochi Blue Tigers' bowling innings. Though his fever isn't severe, it's a clear sign of his commitment, as he's putting his health on the line with international commitments for India just around the corner. This brave display underscores the intense competition for a spot in the squad and Samson's fight to keep his place.

"Sanju has fever and he also has a cough. His health is currently not well and he has been resting. He was at the hospital on Friday, and now he is at home," a source privy to the development told MyKhel.

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Following his on-field appearance, Samson reportedly returned to the hospital to continue his treatment for a viral fever. After being discharged, he is now recuperating at home. Despite being part of the Asia Cup 2025 squad, his place in the playing XI is far from certain. With Shubman Gill likely to open alongside Abhishek Sharma, Samson's usual spot at the top of the order is in jeopardy.

In a notable shift, Samson demoted himself to bat at number four during the recent Kerala Cricket League match, a move away from his usual opening position. This tactical change suggests he is working to prove his versatility and secure his spot as India's primary wicketkeeper-batsman at number five—the only genuine vacancy in the middle order. The 31-year-old, who was acquired for a record price in the KCL auction, will next be seen in action on August 23, as the Kochi Blue Tigers take on their next opponent.

Asia Cup 2025 is slated to get underway from September 9 with India starting their campaign against UAE on September 10 before facing Pakistan on September 14 and Oman on September 19.