‘His amount of supporters are like big players’ – Dinesh Karthik lauds Sanju Samson for knock against South Africa in 3rd ODI

India’s wicket-keeper batsman Dinesh Karthik recently talked about the popularity of Sanju Samson across the country. Samson has gained wide recognition for his attacking performances for Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League and has consistently been in demand by the fans to be a part of the Indian squad. 

After multiple setbacks of being selected, Sanju Samson was selected for India’s tour of South Africa and he didn’t fail to grab the opportunity this time as he scored a marvellous century in the third ODI. Sanju hit 108 runs off 114 balls and hit 6 boundaries and 3 sixes on the slow outfield of Paarl. Karthik recently spoke on Cricbuzz that Samson has one of the greatest amount of supporters who gave him a lot of affection. 

Dinesh Karthik on Sanju Samson’s popularity across the country

“Sanju Samson has been in the Indian team for many years, not been part of many multi-nation tournaments. The world speaks highly of him, he has the amount of supporters that the biggest players have, the love and affection of a lot of people. And he showed today why he has that,” said Dinesh Karthik.

“In a series decider, gets his opportunity at No. 3, which he is very comfortable with, comes in, takes on the pressure, stitches a 52-run partnership with KL Rahul, but it was after that, that was very, very good what he did. In the 19th over, when KL Rahul fell to Wiaan Mulder, Samson and Tilak Varma really soaked the pressure between 19–35 overs. They were not getting boundaries at that stage,” he added.

In the post-ceremony after being awarded as player of the match, Sanju Samson said, “Proud of it, especially considering the result as well. Have been working hard, not just for the past couple of months so it’s nice. This format gives you some extra time to understand the wicket and the bowler’s mindset. Batting at the top of the order gives you those 10-20 extra deliveries.”

He further added, “The whole country is very proud of how Tilak Verma has stepped up, lot more to expect from him. The seniors have set the standards of Indian cricket and the juniors are coming in and doing the job. It’s not very easy, travelling in between and playing every 2-3 days but they’re getting the job done.”