Sanju Samson smashed a swashbuckling century to help India seal their first ever ODI series in South Africa on Thursday. The wicketkeeper-batsman made most of his one of the few appearances for the Men in Blue, putting on his best after loosening himself from the shackles of poor form. Among the admirers of Samson’s knock was none other than ex-India star Sreesanth.
Sreesanth praises selfless Sanju Samson
Speaking on Star Sports after India’s win over Proteas, Sreesanth heaped praise on the batter’s knock and said that it was a well deserved ton. The former pacer said that Samson had played a good knock, especially from his 60s onwards despite people saying that he took many deliveries to get there. Terming Sanju Samson’s knock as a ‘very mature innings’, Sreesanth noted that the knock was brilliant, given the African conditions.
Further, the former pacer revealed that while he had observed Sanju’s aggressive approach previously, the batter’s knock on Tuesday was the need of the hour for both the team and himself. He wished Sanju luck for more hundreds while calling the wicketkeeper-batsman selfless.
Samson stars as IND beat SA to clinch ODI series
Thanks to his brilliant hundred, Sanju Samson was awarded the player of the match as the Men in Blue completed a thumping series win. To note, this was team India’s second ODI series win in South Africa.
After the match, Samson received the POTM award as he credit the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli among other senior batters for setting up the benchmark high for the youngsters.
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,” said Sanju Samson.