Describing
Sanju Samson
as "phenomenal",
KL Rahul
acknowledged that the batter faced challenges securing a spot in the team due to established stalwarts occupying crucial positions. But the India captain expressed satisfaction that Samson seized the opportunity in the series against
South Africa
.
Elevated to the No. 3 position, Samson impressively scored his first ODI century in the third and final match, contributing to India's 78-run victory and securing a 2-1 series win.
"Pleased for Sanju, he's been a phenomenal performer in the IPL over the years.
Unfortunately, we haven't been able to give him the chance at No. 3, because obviously there are stalwarts in the ODIs who occupy those key spots. Glad he was able to grab his chances here," said Rahul following the big win.
Samson's composed innings of 108 runs off 114 balls, along with Tilak Varma's patient 52 runs off 77 balls, steered India to a competitive total of 296 for eight. Despite South Africa putting up a challenge with Tony de Zorzi's half-century (81 runs off 87 balls), they were eventually dismissed for 218 in 45.5 overs.
In the first ODI, Samson didn't have the chance to bat as the target set by South Africa was very low. In the second match, he entered at No.5 and scored 12 runs. However, in the decisive third match, he was promoted to No.3 due to Virat Kohli's absence from the ODI side.
KL Rahul mentioned that the team's focus will now shift to the upcoming two-Test series starting in Centurion on December 26. Regular skipper Rohit Sharma and Kohli will return to the side, with Rahul serving as the primary wicketkeeper.
"Will celebrate with the the boys and then switch back to focusing on the Test series in a day or two. Love being around the boys, that's how it's been since I came over to South Africa after some time away following a disappointing World Cup final," he added.
The recipient of the 'Player of the Match' award, Samson expressed his joy at scoring his first ODI century in 16 appearances. He also mentioned that the additional 3-4 overs he had to bat after coming in at No. 3 played a crucial role in his success.
"Proud of it (century), specially considering the result as well. Have been working hard. 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 Samson.
He noted that the younger players in the team significantly elevated their performance, making the senior members proud.
"The whole country is very proud of how Tilak Verma has stepped up, lots more expected from him. The seniors have set the standards of Indian cricket and the juniors are coming in and doing the job. It's not very easy, travelling in between and playing every 2-3 days but they're getting the job done."
Arshdeep Singh, the left-arm pacer, who recorded impressive figures of 4 for 30, in addition to his five-for in the first ODI, attributed his improved cricketing skills to his experience in the IPL.
"The plan was simple, it was to bowl wicket-to-wicket and get lbws and bowled. Sometimes when there isn't anything happening on the wicket, you need some support from the umpires, that's why I had to appeal a lot," said the 'Player of the Series' for his 10 wickets.
"IPL has been a very good platform for us youngsters, there isn't a big gap between IPL and international cricket. You understand the mindset of international cricketers and it helps. We are all loving the chances we've got. We'd love to give our all in the future as well and do well," he added.
English (US) ·