Sanju Samson was a relieved man after hitting his maiden T20I century in the third game against Bangladesh. His blistering knock of 111 off 47 balls, which included eight sixes and 11 fours, helped India post a record total of 297/6, their highest in the format and second-highest overall. Samson’s century came off just 40 balls, marking the second-fastest T20I hundred by an Indian.
Reflecting on his performance, Samson admitted that despite the immense talent he possesses, he hasn’t been consistent at the international level. “I have felt I can do much better,” Samson said, acknowledging the frustrations that come with untapped potential. However, he noted that playing many games has helped him handle pressure and failure better. “Playing for your country, that pressure was there, but I wanted to perform.”
Leadership Support Behind Samson’s Success
Samson attributed much of his success to the strong backing he has received from the team leadership. He mentioned how the team’s management, led by coach Gautam Gambhir and skipper Suryakumar Yadav, has shown confidence in him, even during rough patches. “The leadership tells me they back me no matter what, not just in words but in actions also,” Samson revealed.
He highlighted that after a series of poor performances, including two ducks in the previous series, he was unsure of his place in the team. However, the unwavering support from his teammates gave him the confidence to deliver. This backing has been crucial in helping him regain his form and perform on the international stage.
Emphasis on Team Spirit and Selflessness
India’s skipper Suryakumar Yadav and coach Gautam Gambhir have emphasized the importance of creating a selfless team culture. Suryakumar noted that the team is focused on camaraderie, with players encouraged to enjoy each other’s success. “We wanted to have selfless cricketers and be a selfless team,” he said.
He also shared Gambhir’s advice that no individual is bigger than the team, whether they are on 49 or 99, stressing that players should always prioritize the team’s goals. This mindset was evident in Samson’s approach, as he maintained a simple strategy of focusing on one ball at a time.
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