Former Indian all-rounders Yuvraj Singh and Ravi Shastri have heaped praise on wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson for his scintillating century in the first T20I against South Africa. Samson’s blistering knock of 107 off just 50 balls powered India to a commanding 61-run victory in Durban.
Samson, who has been given a new lease of life as an opener, has now become the first Indian and fourth overall to score consecutive centuries in T20Is. His remarkable feat has earned him accolades from cricket legends.
“Sanju you beauty! Such a treat to watch that stroke play Very well played @IamSanjuSamson #IndVSSa,” tweeted Yuvraj Singh.
Ravi Shastri also took to Twitter to express his admiration for Samson’s performance. “Sanjooo….. Samsonnn. Special. #SanjuSamson #SAvsIND,” he wrote.
Samson’s century in Durban was his second in as many games, having scored 111 against Bangladesh in Hyderabad last month. Prior to Samson, only Gustav Mckeon (France), Rilee Rossouw (South Africa), and Phil Salt (England) had achieved the rare feat of scoring consecutive T20I centuries.
Samson’s knock was particularly impressive considering the self-doubt he had faced in the past about his ability to replicate his IPL success at the international level.
“Honestly in my career, I have had more failures than success. When you go through those failures, you start doubting yourself. People obviously say things, social media definitely plays its role, and then you also start thinking about it,” Samson said after the match.
“It’s like ‘Sanju, are you not made for international level? You are doing well in the IPL, why is it not happening in international (cricket)?’ I did have lots of thoughts, but after so many years of experience, I know my abilities.”
Samson’s confidence and determination have paid off, and he is now proving to be a valuable asset for the Indian team. His ability to score runs quickly and consistently makes him a dangerous player in the shortest format of the game.
