Even though Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson have very little to do with the upcoming IPL Auction, the duo, respective captains for MI and RR, sparkled with their performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. On Saturday, the duo came up with sizzling performances, showing why they were the first retentions by their teams.
Sanju Samson & Hardik Pandya Shine in SMAT
The world no. 1 T20I all-rounder Hardik Pandya first returned with figures of 1/37 in his 4 overs vs Gujarat, and then scored 74 from 35 deliveries, to help his side chase down 185. In his innings, he smashed six fours and five sixes, at a strike-rate of over 211. On the other hand, Kerala captain Sanju Samson was equally good for his side.
Riding on the confidence of three T20I tons in five matches, Sanju continued with his purple patch. After Services gave his team a target of 150, he managed to score and easy 75 of 45 balls. Overall, Kerala did struggle a bit in the chase, but then, his effort was enough to take them over the line eventually.
Shreyas Iyer Auditions for IPL Auction
On the other hand, the first round of the SMAT was important for a few other players as well, who turned up well for their sides. Shreyas Iyer, while leading Mumbai was excellent as he smashed 130 from just 57 deliveries against Goa. In the same match, all eyes were on Arjun Tendulkar, but he failed miserably, and gave away 48 runs in his four overs.
Finally, Tilak Varma was once again excellent, as he tormented Meghalaya with 67-ball 151. Mind you, this was his third consecutive T20 ton, after smashing two back-to-back vs South Africa, just a few days back.
