Sunil Gavaskar lavishes praise on Sanju Samson after his maiden ton against South Africa
Sanju Samson (Source-Twitter)
Legendary Indian batter Sunil Gavaskar has heaped praise on Sanju Samson after his century versus South Africa. The 29-year-old scored 108 runs to record his first-ever ton for the Indian cricket team. Samson had been under tremendous pressure after his failure in Gqeberha. Many fans voiced their displeasure after the right-arm batter was dismissed for just 12 runs. Despite his enormous talents, the right-handed batter hasn’t nailed his place in the Indian team.
Suryakumar Yadav was preferred over Sanju Samson during the ODI World Cup 2023 tournament. This move hadn’t gone down well especially with Yadav struggling in the ODI format. Gavaskar now believes that this century has changed Samson’s destiny.
Sanju Samson earns praise from Sunil Gavaskar –
The third ODI between India and South Africa saw Sanju Samson score his maiden ODI ton. It came as a relief for the 29-year-old who has been in and out of the Indian team. After his brilliant century, former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar was singing Samson’s praises.
Speaking on Star Sports India, the 74-year-old said “I think this hundred is going to change his career. One, he will get more opportunities with this hundred, but also I think he can start believing in himself that he belongs to this level”
Just when it seemed like Samson was set to step on the accelerator he was out. Speaking about his dismissal, Sunil Gavaskar said “All these things can make you start to doubt whether you actually belong here. This century will make him believe that he indeed belongs here”
Team India scored 296 runs from their stipulated 50 overs thanks to Sanju Samson. Young Tilak Varma also put his hands up at the right time to score his maiden ODI half-century. The 21-year-old scored 52 runs and stitched a crucial fourth wicket stand to help India get back into the contest.
Finishing up on his praises for Sanju Samson the legendary Indian batter said “The standout for me from this innings was his shot selection where he had gotten out despite getting starts. He was waiting for the bad balls”
Chasing 297 to win the game and the series, South Africa had lost wickets at the end of 17 overs. Tony De Zorzi continued his fine batting form with yet another half-century. Arshdeep Singh got the key wicket of Reeza Hendricks caught behind by KL Rahul. Axar Patel then bowled Rassie Van Der Dussen out for two to give India its 2nd wicket.
