Fri Nov 15 18:54:44 UTC 2024: ## Sanju Samson Smashes Third T20 Century, Creates History
Johannesburg: Sanju Samson blazed his way to a stunning century in the fourth T20I against South Africa, etching his name in the record books. His 109 off 56 balls, laced with nine sixes and six fours, helped India post a massive 283/1. This was Samson’s third T20I century, making him the first player ever to score three T20I centuries in a single calendar year.
The feat also cemented his place as only the second wicketkeeper-batsman to achieve three T20I centuries, following England’s Phil Salt. He is also the first Indian wicketkeeper to reach this milestone and the third Indian overall to score three or more T20I centuries, behind Rohit Sharma (5) and Suryakumar Yadav (4). Samson’s knock also made him the Indian wicketkeeper-batsman with the most fifty-plus scores in T20Is.
This was a truly remarkable team effort, with Samson’s opening partner, Abhishek Sharma (33) contributing a quickfire 33 and Tilak Varma also smashing a century (120) in a whirlwind partnership that saw India dominate from the outset. This is the first time in T20I history that two batters from a full ICC member nation scored centuries in the same innings.
The match showcased an explosive display of batting from India, leaving South Africa with a mountain to climb. While Samson’s innings was the highlight, the incident involving a ball striking a spectator in the face overshadowed parts of the celebration, with the player expressing concern and apologizing.
The impressive victory further underlines India’s dominance in the series. Further details regarding the incident are expected soon.
First Piper 