Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson emphasized that he will concentrate solely on factors within his control rather than dwelling on performance or selection setbacks.
Despite missing out on the 2023 World Cup selection and seemingly sliding down the hierarchy of white-ball Indian wicketkeepers, the 29-year-old made a powerful statement with a remarkable maiden international century in the ODI series decider against South Africa in Paarl.
Given the chance to bat at No. 3, Samson crafted a score of 108 from 114 deliveries on a sluggish pitch, contributing significantly to India’s match-winning total of 296/8 in 50 overs.
In a post-game video shared by BCCI, Samson emphasized his concentration on aspects of his game that are within his control.
“Being an Indian cricketer, and with all the media pressure and what goes on and off the field, it is very challenging to keep your mind in the present, being real. I like to focus on what’s in my control.”
“People might have different choices but it’s all about what you want to improve. Whatever setbacks I had, my failures, and whatever selections I missed out on… I don’t like to complain like the people who have done for me,” said Samson.
“I always look within myself and ask, what else can I improve? Are you not patient enough? Are you not playing on the merit? I worked really hard with the Kerala team in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. It’s all about taking control of the controllable, and how much you can capitalize on,” he added.
Despite maintaining a commendable 50-over record with an average exceeding 56, this marked Sanju Samson’s inaugural century in ODIs after 16 appearances.
After the letdown of being excluded from the 2023 World Cup squad, Samson showcased his form with an impressive Vijay Hazare Trophy campaign, accumulating 293 runs in eight matches at an average of 48.83 and a strike rate of 87.98.
Samson’s exceptional performance guided India to their second ODI series victory in South Africa
Sanju Samson’s remarkable century played a pivotal role in India securing a memorable 2-1 ODI series triumph over South Africa. Additionally, India achieved the distinction of becoming the first Asian team to win an ODI series twice in South Africa, the previous victory being a 5-1 result in 2018.
Despite losing the toss and facing early setbacks with two wickets falling under 50 runs, the Indian team posted a formidable total of 296.
South African opener Tony de Zorzi continued his impressive batting form with a stellar 81 off 87, guiding the team to 161/3 by the 30th over. However, his dismissal triggered a collapse, resulting in the Proteas going from 161/3 to being bowled out for 218.
India secured victory in the white-ball segment in South Africa with a convincing 78-run win, following a 1-1 draw in the T20I series. The upcoming highly anticipated phase involves a two-Test series, commencing at Centurion on December 26.
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