India's star batter Sanju Samson finally revived his career with another splendid century in the shortest format. Samson, who was failing to become a constant in Team India set-up, proved why was given the longest rope despite not performing to his full potential. Undoubtedly, the highly talented cricketer, has always enjoyed immense popularity among fans. Whenever he was overlooked for selection in the Indian team, social media would erupt with disappointment. However, his inconsistency often hindered his progress, leading to frequent in-and-out situations.
After nearly a decade since his debut in 2015, Samson finally showcased his true potential. In the first T20I against South Africa, he delivered a stunning performance, smashing a century off just 47 balls. This impressive knock led India to a decisive victory. Notably, this was his second consecutive T20I century, following his previous one against Bangladesh. With his blistering 50-ball 107, he became the first Indian to smash back-to-back T20I century for India.
Sanju Samson credited Suryakumar Yadav which helped him make stunning comeback
After the match, Samson attributed his remarkable turnaround to the support he received from the team management, coach Gambhir, and captain Suryakumar Yadav. He specifically highlighted how Suryakumar played a key role in providing him with clear role definitions, which made a significant difference to his performance. Samson acknowledged that this clarity helped him focus on his strengths and brought out the best in his game.
"When I was playing Duleep Trophy, in the second match, Surya was playing for the other team and during the match itself, he told be Chetta, 'agla 7 match tera hai', (you are going to play next 7 matches), you are going to open the innings in the next 7 games. Whatever happens, I will fully back you," Samson told Jio Cinema after the match.
"I got so much clarity after that. For the first time in my career, I got such clarity that I have 7 matches, so I came out with a different determination. I had to do something different. If you get such clarity and confidence from captain, then it reflects differently on the ground as well. The team management gave me that clarity way ahead that 7 matches (3 vs Bangladesh and 4 vs South Africa) I will be opening. I am not looking too far. Just looking to contribute to the team's cause," Samson further added.
Talking about the first T20I, riding on Sanju Samson's blistering century, India posted a formidable total of 202/8. The South African batting order then faltered under the pressure of the target, with Varun Chakravarthy and Ravi Bishnoi wreaking havoc. The duo claimed three wickets each, leading to a comprehensive 61-run victory for India as South Africa was bundled out for a meager 141.
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