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Sanju Samson heaves sigh of relief after scoring his first ODI century vs South Africa
Indian star cricketer Sanju Samson is finally relieved after scoring his first century for the national side. The 29-year-old scored 108 runs off 114 balls during the final at the Boland Park in Paarl on Thursday. Thanks to the century, the Indian team was able to win the game by 78 runs and also win the ODI series.
Two years after his ODI debut for India the moment finally arrived for Sanju Samson to silence his critics. There was a lot of pressure on the youngster after his dismal showing during the second ODI in Gqeberha.
After his match-winning knock, Sanju Samson was a relieved man as the pressure was off his back. While speaking at the end of the game, the right-handed batter from Kerala spoke about how much the century meant to him.
Relived Sanju Samson relishes special ton
After his amazing 108-run knock during the final ODI, Sanju Samson seemed to be very happy. His knock not only helped India win the game but personally also it was a hugely satisfying moment.
Speaking during the post-game conference, Samson said “The last three-four months were challenging for me, mentally. So going through all that and coming here I think doing what I did today. I think I feel really happy and grateful.”
The Indian star also went on to speak about his motivation during testing times “I’ve been blessed in my genes. My father is also a sportsman, so how much ever setbacks you have, I think there’s always no other way to come back and bounce back… think how much you can work on yourself and how you can come back more strongly.”
Shedding more on his special ton, Samson said “Honestly, I think I was not looking at the scorecard. Until I had a partnership with Tilak till then I just wanted to play and like go with the merit. I just watched the ball and bat and the boundaries and the scoring options ultimately happened.”
Tilak Varma and Sanju Samson added 116 runs for the 4th wicket which turned the game towards India. This is what Samson said about the crucial stand “When Tilak came in when we both had a tough four or five overs where I think (Keshav) Maharaj, was bowling the best. I think both the ends were a bit tight. That’s when we thought that we need to go on and take some risks at the moment.”