“Sanju Samson’s Emotional Century in ODIs After Asia Cup and World Cup Exclusion
“Samson Shines: Stunning Century Ends 8-Year Wait in International Cricket”
It seemed like his final chance in international cricket. Overlooked for recent tournaments, including the Asia Cup and the ODI World Cup, and not selected for the T20I series against Australia and South Africa, doubts arose about his T20 World Cup prospects. With peers advancing and the new generation rising, Sanju Samson faced adversity. However, he turned the tables.
In the ODI series decider at Boland Park, after a sluggish start for India, Samson stepped up. Amidst a struggling innings, he shifted gears, contributing 44 runs in the final 24 balls he faced. India, rallying behind him, scored 141 runs in the last 14 overs, reaching a total of 296. This innings marked Samson’s long-awaited century in international cricket, a milestone achieved eight years after his debut. At 29, it could be the first of many.
Expressing his emotions, Samson said, “Feels really emotional…very happy to achieve this.” Reflecting on challenging months, he acknowledged the physical and mental effort invested, now reaping the rewards.
Unfortunate is the term that encapsulates Samson’s recent 24 months or more in his cricket career. Despite earning high praise from Rohit Sharma in March 2022, expressing the need for a player like Samson in the T20 World Cup squad for the Australian conditions, he faced limited opportunities after the IPL that year, leading to being overlooked.
Once again, Samson was in contention for a major event, the Asia Cup in September. Traveling with the team to Sri Lanka as an injury backup for KL Rahul, he was eventually sent back when Rahul recovered, missing out on the chance to join the ODI World Cup squad.
“Samson focused on the mantra ‘Play match-winning innings’ after his World Cup disappointment, channeling his energy into rigorous training with coach Bijumon in Thiruvananthapuram. Unfazed by missed opportunities, he prioritized process over outcomes. Post-season, they fine-tuned skills in Bengaluru, replicating South African conditions. Recognizing the challenges ahead, they prepared for lateral movement and good bounce. The goal: adapting his game for longer innings, aiming to lead the team to victory in the South Africa series.”
While the buzz in India after Thursday’s victory revolves around Samson’s century, securing a spot in the T20 World Cup remains uncertain due to fierce competition. Recognizing this reality, Bijumon states, “This innings should propel him to more successes. Sanju seems to have reached a turning point, and the peak of his career lies ahead.”
