New Delhi: Indian wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson has undergone surgery for a finger injury but is expected to recover in time for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

Samson, who will captain Rajasthan Royals this year, is set to make a full recovery, according to a report by ESPNCricinfo on Wednesday.

As per the report, it is understood that Samson's recovery will take around a month following his surgery on Tuesday. This would allow him enough time to be fit for the IPL, which is scheduled to begin over the weekend of March 21-23.

Injury details

Samson sustained the injury during the fifth and final T20I of India's series against England earlier this month. The injury occurred when he was struck by a delivery from Jofra Archer. Samson, who was batting at the time, scored 16 runs off 7 balls before being dismissed.

Later in the match, Dhruv Jurel replaced him behind the stumps and made an impact with three catches in India's dominant 150-run win. Despite the injury, Samson's absence did not hamper India's victory in the series.

The series against England was a tough one for Samson, as he struggled to find form. He could only manage 51 runs across five innings, averaging just 10.20, with a strike rate of 118.60.

Impact on domestic commitments

The injury has also forced Samson to miss Kerala's Ranji Trophy quarterfinal against Jammu and Kashmir in Pune, which began on February 8. Samson's absence from the Ranji Trophy match further highlights the extent of the injury and his need for recovery.

Last ODI appearance and IPL expectations

Samson's last ODI appearance was in December 2023, where he made a memorable century against South Africa in an away series. He had been left out of Kerala's squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy last year due to his inability to attend the preparatory camp for the competition.

Samson's next major assignment will be leading Rajasthan Royals in the IPL 2025. As captain, he has been impressive, having led the team to the playoffs last year. Rajasthan Royals were ultimately eliminated by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the second qualifier.

Standout IPL performance

Samson has been one of Rajasthan Royals' most prolific performers, particularly with the bat. He finished as the team's best batter last year, scoring 531 runs in 15 innings at an average of 48.27. His tally included five half-centuries and an impressive strike rate of 153.46.Samson has been one of Rajasthan Royals' most prolific performers, particularly with the bat. He finished as the team's best batter last year, scoring 531 runs in 15 innings at an average of 48.27. His tally included five half-centuries and an impressive strike rate of 153.46.