Not Gautam Gambhir, Ex-Coach Ravi Shastri's Tip Helped Sanju Samson Score A Century In 1st T20 Vs South Africa

Sanju Samson's explosive performance in the opening T20I against South Africa led India to a 61-run victory at Kingsmead. His impressive innings of 107 runs from just 50 balls included seven fours and ten sixes. This remarkable feat set a new record for the highest individual score in a T20I between India and South Africa, surpassing David Miller's previous record of 106 runs.

Reflecting on his achievement, Samson shared insights into a conversation with former coach Ravi Shastri during the Bangladesh series. "I remember him talking to me before the Bangladesh game in Hyderabad. He was like, 'Sanju! You just need that one big hundred. I am telling you. And you will be fine.' I think we are happy it happened and I am happy for everyone," Samson said in a video posted by BCCI.

India's Strong Batting Performance

India was sent to bat first by South Africa, led by Aiden Markram. Samson's aggressive batting gave India a strong start, scoring at a strike rate of 214. Contributions from Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma helped India reach 202/8 in their innings. Yadav scored 21 runs off 17 balls, while Varma added 33 runs from 18 balls.

The South African bowling attack was spearheaded by Gerald Coetzee, who took three wickets for 37 runs in his four-over spell. Despite his efforts, the Indian batters managed to post a challenging total for the hosts.

South Africa's Struggle with the Bat

In response, South Africa's batting lineup faltered under pressure from India's bowlers. None of their batters managed to score more than 30 runs. Heinrich Klaasen top-scored with 25 runs off 22 balls, while Coetzee contributed with a quickfire 23 runs from just 11 balls.

The Indian bowling attack was led by Varun Chakaravarthy and Ravi Bishnoi, both claiming three wickets each. Their combined efforts restricted South Africa to just 141 runs, sealing India's victory with two overs to spare.

Looking Ahead

Samson was awarded Player of the Match for his outstanding performance with the bat. Reflecting on his consecutive hundreds in T20Is, he expressed that it might take some time to fully appreciate the significance of his achievement. "I think it is too early to feel how special it is. Maybe if you ask me tomorrow, I can tell you how excited I am and happy I am," he remarked.

The next encounter between India and South Africa is scheduled for Sunday in Gqeberha, where both teams will look to build on their performances from this match.