India's star batter Sanju Samson ran riot with the bat and produced a scintillating century in the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) to repay selectors' faith right ahead of the Asia Cup 2025. In a spectacular display of power-hitting, India's wicketkeeper-batter hammered a blistering 42-ball century for the Kochi Blue Tigers on Sunday, August 24.
Sanju Samson's blistering century ahead of Asia Cup
Opening the innings against the Aries Kollam Sailors at the Greenfield International Stadium, Samson was in exceptional form right from the start. He aggressively took on the bowlers, racing to a half-century in a mere 16 balls with nine boundaries and two sixes, before reaching the three-figure mark in the 14th over. Notably, this was the fastest fifty in league's history.
Samson's masterful performance, single-handedly propelled his team's chase of a daunting 237-run target. Opening the innings, he launched an explosive assault on the bowlers, smashing 14 boundaries and five sixes. This aggressive approach saw him reach his half-century in just 16 balls and continue his powerful hitting to complete his century.
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The century was a significant one for the Kerala batter, marking his fastest in T20 cricket. He achieved the feat in just 40 balls during a 2024 match against Bangladesh. Samson also made history by becoming the first player to score three T20 International centuries in a single calendar year.
Samson ended up scoring a magnificent 121 off 51 but it was Muhammad Ashik smashed the last-ball six off Sharafuddeen to pull off the spectacular win for Kochi Blue Tigers.
This phenomenal knock is a timely return to form for Samson, who has been named in India's squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. The tournament, set to begin on September 9 in the UAE, presents a big opportunity for him, and this century demonstrates he is in excellent rhythm. His performance was a stark contrast to his previous game on August 23, where he batted at number six and labored to score just 13 runs off 22 balls without a single boundary. In his team's first match of the tournament, he did not get a chance to bat at all.
As he looks ahead to the Asia Cup, Samson faces stiff competition for a spot in the top order. The Indian squad also features Shubman Gill, the team's vice-captain, and Abhishek Sharma as opening options. According to chief selector Ajit Agarkar, both Samson and Gill are considered 'two very good opening options' to play alongside Abhishek Sharma, with the final call on the batting combination to be made in Dubai. With Gill's position seemingly secure, Samson's compelling performance will undoubtedly strengthen his case for inclusion in the playing XI.