Fri Nov 08 15:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Indian Batsman Sanju Samson Blasts Century in First T20 Against South Africa

**Durban, South Africa:** Indian batsman Sanju Samson smashed a blistering century, guiding India to a strong position in the first T20 against South Africa in Durban on Wednesday.

Samson reached the milestone in just 47 balls, hitting seven fours and nine massive sixes. His innings helped India reach 167/3 in 15 overs with Samson (100*) and Hardik Pandya (0*) at the crease.

Earlier, India lost openers Abhishek Sharma (7) and captain Suryakumar Yadav (21) early on. However, Samson, along with Tilak Varma (33), formed crucial partnerships.

Samson and Suryakumar Yadav shared a 66-run stand off 35 balls for the second wicket, while Samson and Varma put together a 77-run partnership off 34 balls for the third wicket.

South Africa’s bowlers were led by Gerald Coetzee, Patrick Kruger, and Keshav Maharaj, who claimed a wicket each.

Winning the toss, South African captain Aiden Markram opted to field first. India fielded three spinners – Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, and Varun Chakravarthy – along with pacers Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan.

**Playing XI:**

**India:** Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Varun Chakravarthy.

**South Africa:** Ryan Rickelton (wk), Aiden Markram (c), Tristan Stubbs, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Patrick Kruger, Marco Jansen, Andile Phehlukwayo, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj, Ncayibo Ncube.

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