Indian wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson is currently enjoying a remarkable run of form, thanks to consistent performances with the bat. Having struggled for years to cement his place due to limited opportunities, Samson has thrived after assuming the role of an opener following the retirements of former captains Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. He recently achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian batter to score consecutive centuries in T20 Internationals.
Last month, Samson recorded a career-best knock of 111 runs during the third and final T20I against Bangladesh in Hyderabad. He continued his prolific form with another century, scoring 107 runs in the series opener against South Africa at Kingsmead, Durban. Speaking on his resurgence, Samson attributed much of his success to Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav, who provided him with crucial support and confidence.
“While I was playing in the Duleep Trophy, Surya approached me and said, ‘You are going to open for India in the next seven matches, no matter how much you score.’ That assurance from the captain gave me immense confidence,” Samson shared during an interview with Jio Cinema.
Samson also spoke about former India head coach Ravi Shastri’s motivational message, which played a significant role in his recent successes. “I remember him talking to me before the Bangladesh game in Hyderabad. He told me, ‘Sanju! You just need that one big hundred. I am telling you. And you will be fine.’ I’m happy it happened and thankful for everyone’s support,” Samson reflected.
His score of 107 against South Africa now stands as the highest individual score in a T20I between the two nations, surpassing David Miller’s unbeaten 106 scored in Guwahati in 2022. For his outstanding performance, Samson was awarded the Player of the Match accolade. India is set to face South Africa in the second T20I match of the series on Sunday in Gqeberha.
