From Sanju Samson to Shaun Marsh, here's a look at 6 batters with highest individual score in losing cause in IPL also including Rohit Sharma, Yusuf Pathan, KL Rahul and Riyan Parag. Cricket | Sports | Photos

From Sanju Samson to Shaun Marsh, 6 batters with highest individual score in losing cause in IPL

Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) has suspended 2007 T20 World and 2011 ODI World Cup winner pacer S Sreesanth for three years following his false comments earlier this year. The comments pertain to Sreesanth's take on Sanju Samson's non selection in India's Champions Trophy 2025 squad.
Sreesanth had made comments on Sanju's non selection in Kerala's Vijaya Hazare Trophy (domestic 50-over tournament) and how it played a part in wicketkeeper-batter's non selection in Champions Trophy squad which was played in Feb-March before IPL 2025.
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"KCA said the decision was taken at its special General Body meeting held in Kochi on April 30. Sreesanth is currently a co-owner of Kollam Aeries, a franchise team in the Kerala Cricket League," reported news agency PTI.
The KCA had issued a show cause notice in the matter to Sreesanth along with Kollam Aeries, Alappuzha Team Lead, and Alappuzha Ripples.
"Since the franchise teams gave satisfactory responses to the notices, no further action will be taken against them. However, the meeting decided to advise greater caution when appointing members to team management," the statement said.
The state cricket association has also decided to file a lawsuit against Sanju's father Samson Viswanath for his comments as well.
Samson Sr. had also lashed out at MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid for wasting Sanju's 10 years.
Vishwanath, in an interview with a Kerala-based news outlet, Media One, said, "There are 3-4 people who wasted 10 years of my son's vital career... captains like Dhoni ji, Virat [Kohli] ji, Rohit [Sharma] ji, and coach [Rahul] Dravid ji," he said, stating that they had "destroyed 10 years of my son's life."
The KCA, however, clarified that the action hasn't been taken for supporting Sanju but making false comments about the state cricket body using the cricketer's name.

Sreesanth had made comments on Sanju's non selection in Kerala's Vijaya Hazare Trophy team and how it played a part in non selection in Champions Trophy squad. cricket sports

Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) has suspended 2007 T20 World and 2011 ODI World Cup winner pacer S Sreesanth for three years following his false comments earlier this year. The comments pertain to Sreesanth's take on Sanju Samson's non selection in India's Champions Trophy 2025 squad. Sreesanth had made comments on Sanju's non selection in Kerala's Vijaya Hazare Trophy (domestic 50-over tournament) and how it played a part in wicketkeeper-batter's non selection in Champions Trophy squad which was played in Feb-March before IPL 2025. Also Read - IPL 2025 | 'From one in first five to win in last six': How Mumbai Indians turned the season around "KCA said the decision was taken at its special General Body meeting held in Kochi on April 30. Sreesanth is currently a co-owner of Kollam Aeries, a franchise team in the Kerala Cricket League," reported news agency PTI. The KCA had issued a show cause notice in the matter to Sreesanth along with Kollam Aeries, Alappuzha Team Lead, and Alappuzha Ripples. "Since the franchise teams gave satisfactory responses to the notices, no further action will be taken against them. However, the meeting decided to advise greater caution when appointing members to team management," the statement said. The state cricket association has also decided to file a lawsuit against Sanju's father Samson Viswanath for his comments as well. Samson Sr. had also lashed out at MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid for wasting Sanju's 10 years. Vishwanath, in an interview with a Kerala-based news outlet, Media One, said, "There are 3-4 people who wasted 10 years of my son's vital career... captains like Dhoni ji, Virat [Kohli] ji, Rohit [Sharma] ji, and coach [Rahul] Dravid ji," he said, stating that they had "destroyed 10 years of my son's life." The KCA, however, clarified that the action hasn't been taken for supporting Sanju but making false comments about the state cricket body using the cricketer's name.

KCA punishes two-time WC winner for false comments in Sanju Samson row

Rajasthan Royals was dealt with another blow as the franchise confirmed on Monday (April 21)that captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson">Sanju Samson</a> will miss the upcoming game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru as he continues his recovery from the side-strain he suffered during the game against Delhi Capitals in the ongoing Indian Premier Leagu (IPL).
The Rajasthan Royals' medical staff hasn't set a date for Samson's return. "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rajasthan-royals">Rajasthan Royals</a> captain Sanju Samson is currently undergoing recovery and will remain at the team's home base with select RR medical staff. As part of his ongoing rehab process, he will not be travelling to Bangalore for the upcoming match against RCB," the Royals released a statement.
"The team management is monitoring his progress closely and will take a game-by-game approach regarding his return to action," it further said.
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<h2>Riyan to lead team in Sanju's absence</h2>
In Samson's absence, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/riyan-parag">Riyan Parag</a> will continue to lead the team.
Riyan had also led the Royals in the first three games of the season as Samson was only allowed to bat and not keep wickets. Samson had come in as an Impact sub in those three games before leading the side from the fourth game.
In Samson's absence, Dhruv Jurel will continue to keep wickets. In the seven games that he has played so far, Samson has scored 224 runs with one half-century.
Under Parag's leadership, Royals lost three out of the four games with only win coming against Chennai Super Kings. Royals are currently at eighth in the points table with six defeats in eight games so far.

Cricket, Sports: The Rajasthan Royals' medical staff has not set a date for Sanju Samson's return. In his absence, Riyan Parag will continue to lead the side

Rajasthan Royals was dealt with another blow as the franchise confirmed on Monday (April 21)that captain Sanju Samson will miss the upcoming game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru as he continues his recovery from the side-strain he suffered during the game against Delhi Capitals in the ongoing Indian Premier Leagu (IPL). The Rajasthan Royals' medical staff hasn't set a date for Samson's return. "Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson is currently undergoing recovery and will remain at the team's home base with select RR medical staff. As part of his ongoing rehab process, he will not be travelling to Bangalore for the upcoming match against RCB," the Royals released a statement. "The team management is monitoring his progress closely and will take a game-by-game approach regarding his return to action," it further said. Also Read: Formula 1: 'It was horrible. Not enjoyable at all', says Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton after poor show in Saudi Arabia Grand Prix Riyan to lead team in Sanju's absence In Samson's absence, Riyan Parag will continue to lead the team. Riyan had also led the Royals in the first three games of the season as Samson was only allowed to bat and not keep wickets. Samson had come in as an Impact sub in those three games before leading the side from the fourth game. In Samson's absence, Dhruv Jurel will continue to keep wickets. In the seven games that he has played so far, Samson has scored 224 runs with one half-century. Under Parag's leadership, Royals lost three out of the four games with only win coming against Chennai Super Kings. Royals are currently at eighth in the points table with six defeats in eight games so far.

IPL 2025: Injured Sanju Samson to miss game against RCB

After a video clip surfaced showing Rajasthan Royals skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson">Sanju Samson</a> not joining the team huddle where team's head coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rahul-dravid">Rahul Dravid</a> was seen in discussion with the players and the support staff, rumours of a falling-out between Sanju Samson and Rahul Dravid started flying.
However, head coach Rahul Dravid, ahead of the match against Lucknow Super Giants during a press conference cleared the air by saying that all the reports are 'baseless' and he stressed that the team remain united in their pursuit to seal place in playoffs.
&ldquo;I don't know where these reports are coming from. Sanju and I are on the same page,&rdquo; Dravid said.
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&ldquo;He's a very integral part of our team. He's involved in each and every decision and discussion. Sometimes, when you lose games and things don't go right, you face criticism and we can take it on our performances, but we can't do anything about this baseless stuff. The spirit of the team is really good, I'm impressed with how hard these guys work. One of the things people don't understand is how hurt the players feel when they don't perform,&rdquo; the Dravid explained.
<h2>Sanju's availability remains doubtful</h2>
In their last match against Delhi Capitals, which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rajasthan-royals">Rajasthan Royals</a> lost in Super Over, Sanju was retired hurt after he made 31 off 19 balls, as he reportedly suffered a side strain. His availability against Lucknow Super Giants on Saturday (April 19) remains doubtful.
The RR skipper appeared to be in discomfort after attempting a cut shot off Vipraj Nigam, prompting the physio to examine the left side of his ribcage. Although he faced the next delivery, Samson soon walked off the field.
"Sanju experienced a bit of pain in the abdominal area. So we have gone for scans. He has done some scans today so we are waiting the results of those scans. And then once we get a bit more clarity around the scans and the severity of (the injury) we'll take a decision going forward and we'll see what happens," head coach Rahul Dravid said in the pre-match press conference on Friday.

Cricket, Sports: Ahead of their match against LSG, Dravid called all the reports 'baseless' and maintained that the team remain united in their pursuit of the playoffs

After a video clip surfaced showing Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson not joining the team huddle where team's head coach Rahul Dravid was seen in discussion with the players and the support staff, rumours of a falling-out between Sanju Samson and Rahul Dravid started flying. However, head coach Rahul Dravid, ahead of the match against Lucknow Super Giants during a press conference cleared the air by saying that all the reports are 'baseless' and he stressed that the team remain united in their pursuit to seal place in playoffs. “I don't know where these reports are coming from. Sanju and I are on the same page,” Dravid said. Also Read: THIS Argentine WC winner is named as Laureus Ambassador ahead of 25th anniversary of Laureus World Sports Awards “He's a very integral part of our team. He's involved in each and every decision and discussion. Sometimes, when you lose games and things don't go right, you face criticism and we can take it on our performances, but we can't do anything about this baseless stuff. The spirit of the team is really good, I'm impressed with how hard these guys work. One of the things people don't understand is how hurt the players feel when they don't perform,” the Dravid explained. Sanju's availability remains doubtful In their last match against Delhi Capitals, which Rajasthan Royals lost in Super Over, Sanju was retired hurt after he made 31 off 19 balls, as he reportedly suffered a side strain. His availability against Lucknow Super Giants on Saturday (April 19) remains doubtful. The RR skipper appeared to be in discomfort after attempting a cut shot off Vipraj Nigam, prompting the physio to examine the left side of his ribcage. Although he faced the next delivery, Samson soon walked off the field. "Sanju experienced a bit of pain in the abdominal area. So we have gone for scans. He has done some scans today so we are waiting the results of those scans. And then once we get a bit more clarity around the scans and the severity of (the injury) we'll take a decision going forward and we'll see what happens," head coach Rahul Dravid said in the pre-match press conference on Friday.

IPL 2025: RR coach Rahul Dravid breaks silence on Sanju Samson 'fall out' rumours, says 'Sanju and I are…'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rajasthan-royal" rel="dofollow">Rajasthan Royals (RR)</a> captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson" rel="dofollow">Sanju Samson</a> remains a doubtful starter for the side&rsquo;s next IPL 2025 home game against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lucknow-super-giants" rel="dofollow">Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)</a> on Saturday (Apr 19), head coach Rahul Dravid confirmed a day before the tie in Jaipur. Dravid added that the team is awaiting scan results on an injury to his side he suffered in the previous away clash against Delhi Capitals, which RR lost in the Super Over.
"Sanju experienced a bit of pain in the abdominal area. So, we have gone for scans. He has done some scans today, so we are waiting for the results of those scans. And then once we get a bit more clarity around the scans and the severity of [the injury], we'll take a decision going forward, and we'll see what happens,&rdquo; RR head coach Rahul Dravid said on Friday.
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While chasing against DC, Sanju retired hurt midway through his innings on 31 off 19 balls. The RR opener appeared uncomfortable with a suspected side issue he suffered after attempting to cut DC spinner Vipraj Nigam, after which the RR physio checked on him. Though he faced the next ball, Samson retired soon after, leaving RR a batter short in the chase.
"It feels alright," Samson informed the broadcasters after the match. "I was just not ready to come back and bat here. We'll observe it tomorrow and see how it is."
Meanwhile, RR began IPL 2025 nursing a thumb injury he suffered against England during the bilateral series, playing the side&rsquo;s first three matches purely as a batter. In his absence, RR&rsquo;s India batter Riyan Parag captained the team, and should Samson remain unavailable for selection due to his latest injury, Parag would lead the team.
Sanju played as a batter, coming in as an Impact Sub in all matches, while Dhruv Jurel kept wickets in his absence.
<h2>RR under Parag</h2>
Under Parag&rsquo;s captaincy, Rajasthan lost their tournament opener to SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) and the next game against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) but returned to winning ways with a close victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at their second home venue, Guwahati.
They then beat the Punjab Kings but lost the next three matches; currently, they sit at the eighth spot on the points table with two wins in seven contested matches.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sanju Samson appeared uncomfortable with a suspected side issue he suffered after attempting to cut DC spinner Vipraj Nigam in the previous game. Sports, Cricket

Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson remains a doubtful starter for the side’s next IPL 2025 home game against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Saturday (Apr 19), head coach Rahul Dravid confirmed a day before the tie in Jaipur. Dravid added that the team is awaiting scan results on an injury to his side he suffered in the previous away clash against Delhi Capitals, which RR lost in the Super Over. "Sanju experienced a bit of pain in the abdominal area. So, we have gone for scans. He has done some scans today, so we are waiting for the results of those scans. And then once we get a bit more clarity around the scans and the severity of [the injury], we'll take a decision going forward, and we'll see what happens,” RR head coach Rahul Dravid said on Friday. Also read | Dewald Brevis joins CSK as injury replacement for remainder of IPL 2025 While chasing against DC, Sanju retired hurt midway through his innings on 31 off 19 balls. The RR opener appeared uncomfortable with a suspected side issue he suffered after attempting to cut DC spinner Vipraj Nigam, after which the RR physio checked on him. Though he faced the next ball, Samson retired soon after, leaving RR a batter short in the chase. "It feels alright," Samson informed the broadcasters after the match. "I was just not ready to come back and bat here. We'll observe it tomorrow and see how it is." Meanwhile, RR began IPL 2025 nursing a thumb injury he suffered against England during the bilateral series, playing the side’s first three matches purely as a batter. In his absence, RR’s India batter Riyan Parag captained the team, and should Samson remain unavailable for selection due to his latest injury, Parag would lead the team. Sanju played as a batter, coming in as an Impact Sub in all matches, while Dhruv Jurel kept wickets in his absence. RR under Parag Under Parag’s captaincy, Rajasthan lost their tournament opener to SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) and the next game against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) but returned to winning ways with a close victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at their second home venue, Guwahati. They then beat the Punjab Kings but lost the next three matches; currently, they sit at the eighth spot on the points table with two wins in seven contested matches. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Sanju Samson doubtful for RR's home game against Lucknow Super Giants: Dravid

&ldquo;They won the game in the powerplay.&rdquo; That was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson">Sanju Samson</a>&rsquo;s honest admission after Rajasthan Royals faced a crushing nine-wicket defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Sunday. RCB chased down a total of 173 with ease, getting over the line with 15 balls to spare and extending their dominant run in IPL 2025.
On a pitch that offered grip and slowness in the first innings, Rajasthan put up what looked like a strong total of 172. Samson felt his team had something to fight with. &ldquo;After losing the toss on a slow wicket, 170-odd was a really good score. It was hard to bat in the powerplay,&rdquo; he said.
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But RCB&rsquo;s batters had different plans. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/phil-salt">Phil Salt</a> came out hard, smashing 65 runs off just 33 balls and putting the Rajasthan bowlers under pressure right from the start. Once Salt departed, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> took control and calmly anchored the chase with his 100th T20 half-century.
<h2>'Wicket was not easy to bat'</h2>
&ldquo;Knew Salt and Kohli would come hard at us. They won the game in the powerplay,&rdquo; Samson added, admitting the match had slipped away early.
Fielding too became a concern for Rajasthan, as dropped catches gave RCB added chances. But Samson refused to stress on those mistakes. &ldquo;They also dropped our catches, we also dropped theirs. It is okay, they batted better. Have to give it to RCB, their intent was better.&rdquo;
RCB skipper Rajat Patidar acknowledged Kohli&rsquo;s impact. &ldquo;The wicket was not easy to bat, we targeted 150-170. The way VK bhai rotated the strike was special.&rdquo;
Devdutt Padikkal, who stayed unbeaten on 40 and added 83 with Kohli, said the side will look to carry this form into their next home game against Punjab Kings on April 18.&nbsp;&ldquo;We are in a good mindset,&rdquo; Samson concluded. &ldquo;People have admitted their mistakes. We have to put this game behind us and come back fresh.&rdquo;

Cricket, Sports: Padikkal, who stayed unbeaten on 40 said the side will look to carry this form into their next home game against Punjab Kings on April 18

“They won the game in the powerplay.” That was Sanju Samson’s honest admission after Rajasthan Royals faced a crushing nine-wicket defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Sunday. RCB chased down a total of 173 with ease, getting over the line with 15 balls to spare and extending their dominant run in IPL 2025. On a pitch that offered grip and slowness in the first innings, Rajasthan put up what looked like a strong total of 172. Samson felt his team had something to fight with. “After losing the toss on a slow wicket, 170-odd was a really good score. It was hard to bat in the powerplay,” he said. Also Read: ICC joins hands with BCCI, ECB and CA to support initiative for displaced Afghan women cricketers But RCB’s batters had different plans. Phil Salt came out hard, smashing 65 runs off just 33 balls and putting the Rajasthan bowlers under pressure right from the start. Once Salt departed, Virat Kohli took control and calmly anchored the chase with his 100th T20 half-century. 'Wicket was not easy to bat' “Knew Salt and Kohli would come hard at us. They won the game in the powerplay,” Samson added, admitting the match had slipped away early. Fielding too became a concern for Rajasthan, as dropped catches gave RCB added chances. But Samson refused to stress on those mistakes. “They also dropped our catches, we also dropped theirs. It is okay, they batted better. Have to give it to RCB, their intent was better.” RCB skipper Rajat Patidar acknowledged Kohli’s impact. “The wicket was not easy to bat, we targeted 150-170. The way VK bhai rotated the strike was special.” Devdutt Padikkal, who stayed unbeaten on 40 and added 83 with Kohli, said the side will look to carry this form into their next home game against Punjab Kings on April 18. “We are in a good mindset,” Samson concluded. “People have admitted their mistakes. We have to put this game behind us and come back fresh.”

IPL 2025: 'They won in powerplay, RR skipper Samson admits after big loss against RCB

Sanju Samson etched his name into Rajasthan Royals&rsquo; (RR) history books on Saturday, becoming the captain with the most wins in the franchise&rsquo;s Indian Premier League (IPL) journey. Samson achieved the milestone during RR&rsquo;s emphatic 50-run victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Mullanpur.
This marked <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson">Sanju Samson</a>&rsquo;s 32nd win as RR skipper, surpassing the late Australian legend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shane-warne">Shane Warne</a>, who led the franchise to 31 wins between 2008 and 2011. Warne, who famously captained RR to their maiden IPL title in 2008, finished his tenure with 31 wins and 24 losses.
Since taking over the reins in 2021, Samson has now led RR in 62 matches, with 32 wins, 29 losses, and one no result. Under his leadership, the Royals reached the IPL final in 2022, finishing runners-up to Gujarat Titans, and made the playoffs again in 2024.
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Coming to the match, After PBKS won the toss and opted to bowl, RR got off to a flying start, thanks to an 89-run partnership between Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sanju Samson. Jaiswal top-scored with a fluent 67 off 45 balls, including three fours and five sixes. Samson contributed a quick 38 off 26, striking six boundaries.
Finishing flourishes came from Riyan Parag (43* off 25, 3 fours, 3 sixes) and Shimron Hetmyer (20 off 12, 2 fours, 1 six), helping RR post an imposing total of 205/4 in their 20 overs. Lockie Ferguson led the PBKS bowling attack with figures of 2/37, while Arshdeep Singh and Marco Jansen picked up one wicket each.
In response, PBKS had a rocky start and were soon reeling at 43/4, courtesy of a fiery spell from Jofra Archer (3/25). A fighting 88-run stand between Nehal Wadhera (62 off 41, 5 fours, 3 sixes) and Glenn Maxwell (30 off 21, 3 fours, 1 six) briefly revived PBKS&rsquo; hopes. However, once they departed, the chase fizzled out.
RR bowlers continued to apply pressure, with Sandeep Sharma (2/21) and Maheesh Theekshana (2/26) providing excellent support. PBKS ultimately stumbled to 155/9 in their 20 overs, suffering their first defeat of IPL 2025.
<h2>We missed the trick: Sunil Joshi</h2>
Following the loss, PBKS spin bowling coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sunil-joshi">Sunil Joshi</a> reflected on the tactical choices made during the game. Speaking at the post-match press conference, he admitted that the team may have underutilised their spin resources.
&ldquo;We have a long season ahead. I think we missed the trick&mdash;we could have bowled a couple more overs of spin with Glenn Maxwell and Chahal. So we missed the trick, and going forward, we will look into it,&rdquo; Joshi remarked.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: The win over PBKS was Samson’s 32nd win as RR skipper, surpassing late Australian legend Shane Warne, who led the franchise to 31 wins between 2008-2011

Sanju Samson etched his name into Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) history books on Saturday, becoming the captain with the most wins in the franchise’s Indian Premier League (IPL) journey. Samson achieved the milestone during RR’s emphatic 50-run victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Mullanpur. This marked Sanju Samson’s 32nd win as RR skipper, surpassing the late Australian legend Shane Warne, who led the franchise to 31 wins between 2008 and 2011. Warne, who famously captained RR to their maiden IPL title in 2008, finished his tenure with 31 wins and 24 losses. Since taking over the reins in 2021, Samson has now led RR in 62 matches, with 32 wins, 29 losses, and one no result. Under his leadership, the Royals reached the IPL final in 2022, finishing runners-up to Gujarat Titans, and made the playoffs again in 2024. Also Read: IPL 2025 | KL Rahul 2.0: Aggressive, free and thriving at Delhi Capitals Coming to the match, After PBKS won the toss and opted to bowl, RR got off to a flying start, thanks to an 89-run partnership between Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sanju Samson. Jaiswal top-scored with a fluent 67 off 45 balls, including three fours and five sixes. Samson contributed a quick 38 off 26, striking six boundaries. Finishing flourishes came from Riyan Parag (43* off 25, 3 fours, 3 sixes) and Shimron Hetmyer (20 off 12, 2 fours, 1 six), helping RR post an imposing total of 205/4 in their 20 overs. Lockie Ferguson led the PBKS bowling attack with figures of 2/37, while Arshdeep Singh and Marco Jansen picked up one wicket each. In response, PBKS had a rocky start and were soon reeling at 43/4, courtesy of a fiery spell from Jofra Archer (3/25). A fighting 88-run stand between Nehal Wadhera (62 off 41, 5 fours, 3 sixes) and Glenn Maxwell (30 off 21, 3 fours, 1 six) briefly revived PBKS’ hopes. However, once they departed, the chase fizzled out. RR bowlers continued to apply pressure, with Sandeep Sharma (2/21) and Maheesh Theekshana (2/26) providing excellent support. PBKS ultimately stumbled to 155/9 in their 20 overs, suffering their first defeat of IPL 2025. We missed the trick: Sunil Joshi Following the loss, PBKS spin bowling coach Sunil Joshi reflected on the tactical choices made during the game. Speaking at the post-match press conference, he admitted that the team may have underutilised their spin resources. “We have a long season ahead. I think we missed the trick—we could have bowled a couple more overs of spin with Glenn Maxwell and Chahal. So we missed the trick, and going forward, we will look into it,” Joshi remarked. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: RR skipper Sanju Samson breaks THIS long-standing record of Shane Warne

Sanju Samson is set to resume his full leadership role as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rajasthan-royals">Rajasthan Royals</a> captain after receiving clearance from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/national-cricket-academy">National Cricket Academy</a> (NCA) to take up wicket-keeping duties in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
Samson had undergone surgery on his right index finger following an injury sustained during India's T20I series against England in February, when he was struck by former RR teammate and England pacer Jofra Archer. As a result, he played only as a specialist batter in Rajasthan Royals' first three matches, with Riyan Parag leading the side in his absence.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-the-value-for-batsmanship-is-no-longer-there-says-kkrs-mentor-dwayne-bravo-ahead-of-their-clash-against-srh-8917998">IPL 2025: 'The value for batsmanship is no longer there', says KKR's mentor Dwayne Bravo ahead of their clash against SRH</a>
The Royals' skipper featured in the season opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad as an Impact Player but was substituted out in the games against Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders. He scored 66, 13, and 20 runs in the three matches.
<h2>'Samson will return to full leadership'</h2>
"Rajasthan Royals captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson">Sanju Samson</a> has received clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) to resume wicket-keeping duties following a period of recovery,&rdquo; the franchise announced in a statement. "The clearance comes after a thorough assessment of his fitness by the NCA medical team. With this positive development, Samson will return to his full leadership role and resume captaincy from the team's next match against Punjab Kings.&rdquo;
Currently, Rajasthan Royals sit second-last on the points table, with just one win from their first three matches. The inaugural IPL champions will face Punjab Kings in Mullanpur on April 5, hoping to turn their fortunes around.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Sanju Samson had undergone surgery on his right index finger following an injury sustained during India's T20I series against England in February 2025

Sanju Samson is set to resume his full leadership role as Rajasthan Royals captain after receiving clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) to take up wicket-keeping duties in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Samson had undergone surgery on his right index finger following an injury sustained during India's T20I series against England in February, when he was struck by former RR teammate and England pacer Jofra Archer. As a result, he played only as a specialist batter in Rajasthan Royals' first three matches, with Riyan Parag leading the side in his absence. Also Read: IPL 2025: 'The value for batsmanship is no longer there', says KKR's mentor Dwayne Bravo ahead of their clash against SRH The Royals' skipper featured in the season opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad as an Impact Player but was substituted out in the games against Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders. He scored 66, 13, and 20 runs in the three matches. 'Samson will return to full leadership' "Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has received clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) to resume wicket-keeping duties following a period of recovery,” the franchise announced in a statement. "The clearance comes after a thorough assessment of his fitness by the NCA medical team. With this positive development, Samson will return to his full leadership role and resume captaincy from the team's next match against Punjab Kings.” Currently, Rajasthan Royals sit second-last on the points table, with just one win from their first three matches. The inaugural IPL champions will face Punjab Kings in Mullanpur on April 5, hoping to turn their fortunes around. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: RR skipper Sanju Samson back at helm again, gets NCA clearance for wicket-keeping duties

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> is back, and with it comes the excitement, drama, and high-stakes battles that fans eagerly anticipate each year. However, for Rajasthan Royals, this season carries a tinge of loss.
The departure of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jos-buttler">Jos Buttler</a>, one of their most celebrated players, to Gujarat Titans has left a void that won&rsquo;t be easy to fill. Over the years, Buttler wasn&rsquo;t just a key player for Rajasthan; he was the heartbeat of their batting lineup, a mentor to younger players, and a trusted ally of skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson">Sanju Samson</a>. His absence raises an important question: will Rajasthan Royals miss him in IPL 2025? The answer is a resounding yes.
Buttler&rsquo;s impact on Rajasthan Royals went far beyond the runs he scored. He was a match-winner, a leader on the field, and a player who could single-handedly turn games in Rajasthan&rsquo;s favor. His record speaks for itself&mdash;over 3,000 runs for the franchise, including a phenomenal 2022 season where he won the Orange Cap with 863 runs and led RR to the final. But it wasn&rsquo;t just about the numbers.
Buttler had the ability to take on the best bowlers in the world, provide explosive starts, and adapt to different match situations. Rajasthan relied heavily on him at the top of the order, and his presence often set the tone for their innings. Now, without him, the team will have to rethink its approach.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ms-dhonis-hotel-room-is-always-open-for-teammates-to-play-fifa-discuss-cricket-reveals-sam-curran-8878384">MS Dhoni&rsquo;s hotel room is always open for teammates to play FIFA, discuss cricket, reveals Sam Curran</a>
One of the biggest voids left by Buttler&rsquo;s departure is his bond with captain Sanju Samson. The duo shared a special partnership both on and off the field. They complemented each other&rsquo;s batting styles, with Samson often playing the anchor while Buttler took on the role of aggressor. Their mutual trust and understanding made Rajasthan&rsquo;s batting lineup more formidable.
<h2>Time for Sanju to step up&nbsp;</h2>
Samson himself admitted that releasing Buttler was one of the hardest decisions he had to make, showing just how much the Englishman meant to the franchise. With Buttler gone, the responsibility on Samson&rsquo;s shoulders has increased significantly, and he will have to take on an even greater leadership role this season.
Rajasthan Royals still have a talented squad, but there&rsquo;s no denying that Buttler&rsquo;s absence will be felt. Yashasvi Jaiswal, one of the brightest young talents in Indian cricket, is expected to step up and fill the void at the top. Shimron Hetmyer remains a crucial middle-order finisher, while emerging players like Dhruv Jurel and Riyan Parag have an opportunity to make a bigger impact. However, replacing a player of Buttler&rsquo;s caliber is never easy. His experience, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure made him irreplaceable.
Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans will be thrilled to have secured Buttler&rsquo;s services. The 2022 champions, who have been one of the most consistent teams in recent years, now have a player who can change the course of a match within a few overs. His presence not only strengthens their batting but also gives them a leader with immense IPL experience. Rajasthan&rsquo;s loss is certainly Gujarat&rsquo;s gain, and it wouldn&rsquo;t be surprising if Buttler plays a crucial role in their campaign this season.
For Rajasthan, this IPL will be about finding a new identity without one of their biggest stars. They have a strong core and a captain in Samson who has proven his leadership capabilities, but whether they can succeed without Buttler remains to be seen. One thing is certain&mdash;when Rajasthan Royals take the field in IPL 2025, there will be a noticeable absence at the top of the order, and fans will be left wondering what could have been if Buttler was still donning the pink jersey.

Sports, Cricket: Jos Buttler was the heartbeat of their batting lineup, a mentor to younger players, and a trusted ally of skipper Sanju Samson

The Indian Premier League is back, and with it comes the excitement, drama, and high-stakes battles that fans eagerly anticipate each year. However, for Rajasthan Royals, this season carries a tinge of loss. The departure of Jos Buttler, one of their most celebrated players, to Gujarat Titans has left a void that won’t be easy to fill. Over the years, Buttler wasn’t just a key player for Rajasthan; he was the heartbeat of their batting lineup, a mentor to younger players, and a trusted ally of skipper Sanju Samson. His absence raises an important question: will Rajasthan Royals miss him in IPL 2025? The answer is a resounding yes. Buttler’s impact on Rajasthan Royals went far beyond the runs he scored. He was a match-winner, a leader on the field, and a player who could single-handedly turn games in Rajasthan’s favor. His record speaks for itself—over 3,000 runs for the franchise, including a phenomenal 2022 season where he won the Orange Cap with 863 runs and led RR to the final. But it wasn’t just about the numbers. Buttler had the ability to take on the best bowlers in the world, provide explosive starts, and adapt to different match situations. Rajasthan relied heavily on him at the top of the order, and his presence often set the tone for their innings. Now, without him, the team will have to rethink its approach. Also Read: MS Dhoni’s hotel room is always open for teammates to play FIFA, discuss cricket, reveals Sam Curran One of the biggest voids left by Buttler’s departure is his bond with captain Sanju Samson. The duo shared a special partnership both on and off the field. They complemented each other’s batting styles, with Samson often playing the anchor while Buttler took on the role of aggressor. Their mutual trust and understanding made Rajasthan’s batting lineup more formidable. Time for Sanju to step up Samson himself admitted that releasing Buttler was one of the hardest decisions he had to make, showing just how much the Englishman meant to the franchise. With Buttler gone, the responsibility on Samson’s shoulders has increased significantly, and he will have to take on an even greater leadership role this season. Rajasthan Royals still have a talented squad, but there’s no denying that Buttler’s absence will be felt. Yashasvi Jaiswal, one of the brightest young talents in Indian cricket, is expected to step up and fill the void at the top. Shimron Hetmyer remains a crucial middle-order finisher, while emerging players like Dhruv Jurel and Riyan Parag have an opportunity to make a bigger impact. However, replacing a player of Buttler’s caliber is never easy. His experience, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure made him irreplaceable. Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans will be thrilled to have secured Buttler’s services. The 2022 champions, who have been one of the most consistent teams in recent years, now have a player who can change the course of a match within a few overs. His presence not only strengthens their batting but also gives them a leader with immense IPL experience. Rajasthan’s loss is certainly Gujarat’s gain, and it wouldn’t be surprising if Buttler plays a crucial role in their campaign this season. For Rajasthan, this IPL will be about finding a new identity without one of their biggest stars. They have a strong core and a captain in Samson who has proven his leadership capabilities, but whether they can succeed without Buttler remains to be seen. One thing is certain—when Rajasthan Royals take the field in IPL 2025, there will be a noticeable absence at the top of the order, and fans will be left wondering what could have been if Buttler was still donning the pink jersey.

Exclusive | IPL 2025: The Buttler did it—Gujarat celebrates, Rajasthan regroups

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Rajasthan Royals have named Riyan Parag as their new captain for the upcoming season as regular skipper Sanju Samson struggles with fitness. Parag will lead the side in the opening three matches of the IPL 2025 season starting on Saturday (Mar 22). Samson will return to the captaincy role once fit and will participate in all the matches only as a pure batter. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Riyan Parag to lead RR for three matches<o:p></o:p></h2>
&ldquo;Rajasthan Royals have announced that Riyan Parag will lead the team for the first three matches of IPL 2025. The young all-rounder will take charge in the opening fixture against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23, followed by home encounters against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders on March 26 and five-time champions Chennai Super Kings on March 30,&rdquo; a statement on Rajasthan Royals&rsquo; website read.<o:p></o:p>
In an announcement made on Thursday, the 2008 champions opted to hand Parag the captaincy while Samson continues to recover from a thumb injury he suffered during the Ranji Trophy season. The injury also kept him out of the Ranji Trophy final where his side finished runners-up. However, despite this Samson will continue to feature as a batter in the side indicating he could be used as a make away for the Impact Player.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/speaking-exclusively-to-wions-aditya-pimpale-was-avni-aneja-co-founder-of-six5six-who-are-the-official-kits-manufacturers-of-kkr-in-ipl-2025-8870944" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025 Exclusive: Story behind Kolkata Knight Riders' new kit and how Shah Rukh Khan played a key role</a>
Samson will be expected to feature during the batting innings before RR can use their Impact Player option. In this scenario, Dhruv Jurel will keep the wickets for the franchise, giving flexibility in the batting unit.<o:p></o:p>
Under Parag RR will play against SunRisers Hyderabad (away), Kolkata Knight Riders (Guwahati) and Chennai Super Kings (Guwahati) before Samson returns to the captaincy role for the fourth match against Punjab Kings in Chandigarh. RR will play first leg of their home games away in Guwahati before returning to Jaipur, their traditional home on April 13 as they face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

Sports, Cricket, IPL: Rajasthan Royals have named Riyan Parag as their new captain for the upcoming season as regular skipper Sanju Samson struggles with fitness.

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Rajasthan Royals have named Riyan Parag as their new captain for the upcoming season as regular skipper Sanju Samson struggles with fitness. Parag will lead the side in the opening three matches of the IPL 2025 season starting on Saturday (Mar 22). Samson will return to the captaincy role once fit and will participate in all the matches only as a pure batter. Riyan Parag to lead RR for three matches “Rajasthan Royals have announced that Riyan Parag will lead the team for the first three matches of IPL 2025. The young all-rounder will take charge in the opening fixture against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23, followed by home encounters against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders on March 26 and five-time champions Chennai Super Kings on March 30,” a statement on Rajasthan Royals’ website read. In an announcement made on Thursday, the 2008 champions opted to hand Parag the captaincy while Samson continues to recover from a thumb injury he suffered during the Ranji Trophy season. The injury also kept him out of the Ranji Trophy final where his side finished runners-up. However, despite this Samson will continue to feature as a batter in the side indicating he could be used as a make away for the Impact Player. ALSO READ | IPL 2025 Exclusive: Story behind Kolkata Knight Riders' new kit and how Shah Rukh Khan played a key role Samson will be expected to feature during the batting innings before RR can use their Impact Player option. In this scenario, Dhruv Jurel will keep the wickets for the franchise, giving flexibility in the batting unit. Under Parag RR will play against SunRisers Hyderabad (away), Kolkata Knight Riders (Guwahati) and Chennai Super Kings (Guwahati) before Samson returns to the captaincy role for the fourth match against Punjab Kings in Chandigarh. RR will play first leg of their home games away in Guwahati before returning to Jaipur, their traditional home on April 13 as they face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

IPL 2025: Riyan Parag to lead Rajasthan Royals for opening three matches; unfit Sanju Samson to play as batter

In a massive boost to the Rajasthan Royals, the Indian batting duo of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/yashasvi-jaiswal" rel="dofollow">Yashasvi Jaiswal</a> and captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson" rel="dofollow">Sanju Samson</a> have recovered from their respective injuries, making themselves available for the side&rsquo;s curtain raiser against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Sunday (Mar 23) in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>. Jaiswal and Samson are the first team players and key to the side&rsquo;s success in the impending season.
While the attacking opener Jaiswal has recovered from his ankle injury, having already joined the pre-season camp, the skipper has also recovered from a broken index finger he suffered during England T20Is earlier and is likely to re-link with his IPL 2025 squad on Monday (Mar 17) after receiving the green signal from BCCI&rsquo;s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-watch-rahul-dravid-joins-rajasthan-royals-camp-in-crutches-8850200" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025 | WATCH: Rahul Dravid joins Rajasthan Royals camp in crutches</a>
"Samson is joining RR on Monday. He has cleared his fitness test for his batting at the BCCI's CoE, and now the medical team at the CoE is taking his wicket-keeping test as well before releasing him. Regarding Jaiswal, there was a small tear in his ankle. He underwent extensive rehab at BCCI's CoE before being released for the IPL," a source close to the information said in a chat with the Times of India (TOI).
Rajasthan Royals posted Jaiswal&rsquo;s welcome video on its X handle.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8bmk73j-pf5jgjoj-b5blwejg">
JaisBall season has arrived 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/yzgDBCcQvT">pic.twitter.com/yzgDBCcQvT</a>
&mdash; Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/1899514149258010926?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2025</a></blockquote>
Meanwhile, Jaiswal, who missed out on India&rsquo;s final 15 to mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, had to skip Mumbai&rsquo;s Ranji Trophy semis against Vidarbha due to pain in his ankle, reporting to Bengaluru afterwards.
<h2>Rajasthan Royals&rsquo; IPL 2025 squad &ndash;</h2>
Sanju Samson (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Sandeep Sharma, Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel, Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana, Wanindu Hasaranga, Akash Madhwal, Kumar Kartikeya, Nitish Rana, Tushar Deshpande, Shubham Dubey, Yudhvir Singh, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Kwena Maphaka, Kunal Rathore and Ashok Sharma
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: India’s batting duo of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sanju Samson are two first-team players and key to Rajasthan Royals' success in the impending season.

In a massive boost to the Rajasthan Royals, the Indian batting duo of Yashasvi Jaiswal and captain Sanju Samson have recovered from their respective injuries, making themselves available for the side’s curtain raiser against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Sunday (Mar 23) in IPL 2025. Jaiswal and Samson are the first team players and key to the side’s success in the impending season. While the attacking opener Jaiswal has recovered from his ankle injury, having already joined the pre-season camp, the skipper has also recovered from a broken index finger he suffered during England T20Is earlier and is likely to re-link with his IPL 2025 squad on Monday (Mar 17) after receiving the green signal from BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Also read | IPL 2025 | WATCH: Rahul Dravid joins Rajasthan Royals camp in crutches "Samson is joining RR on Monday. He has cleared his fitness test for his batting at the BCCI's CoE, and now the medical team at the CoE is taking his wicket-keeping test as well before releasing him. Regarding Jaiswal, there was a small tear in his ankle. He underwent extensive rehab at BCCI's CoE before being released for the IPL," a source close to the information said in a chat with the Times of India (TOI). Rajasthan Royals posted Jaiswal’s welcome video on its X handle. JaisBall season has arrived 🔥 pic.twitter.com/yzgDBCcQvT — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) March 11, 2025 Meanwhile, Jaiswal, who missed out on India’s final 15 to mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, had to skip Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy semis against Vidarbha due to pain in his ankle, reporting to Bengaluru afterwards. Rajasthan Royals’ IPL 2025 squad – Sanju Samson (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Sandeep Sharma, Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel, Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana, Wanindu Hasaranga, Akash Madhwal, Kumar Kartikeya, Nitish Rana, Tushar Deshpande, Shubham Dubey, Yudhvir Singh, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Kwena Maphaka, Kunal Rathore and Ashok Sharma (With inputs from agencies)

Massive boost for Rajasthan Royals as star Indian duo joins squad ahead of IPL 2025

Rajasthan Royals captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson">Sanju Samson</a> opened up about one of the toughest challenges he has faced&mdash;parting ways with explosive opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jos-buttler">Jos Buttler</a> ahead of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL) 2025.
Buttler, who joined the Royals in 2018, was a cornerstone of their batting lineup, scoring 3,098 runs in 83 matches at an impressive average of 41.84. However, ahead of the mega auction, Rajasthan decided against retaining the English star, opting to keep six other players instead. As a result, Buttler entered the auction pool, where Gujarat Titans secured him for over $1 million (₹15.75 crore).
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wpl-2025-indian-batters-fall-behind-foreigners-at-own-home-in-terms-of-scoring-runs-numbers-dont-lie-8847098">WPL 2025: Indian batters fail to score as many runs as foreigners at own home? Numbers don't lie</a>
Speaking to digital broadcaster Star, Samson expressed his deep bond with Buttler, whom he considers one of his closest friends. &ldquo;IPL is not just about leading a team at the highest level; it also helps you build lifelong friendships. Jos and I shared a strong batting partnership over seven years, and letting him go has been one of the most difficult things for me,&rdquo; Samson admitted.
<h2 data-start="580" data-end="950">'He was like an elder brother to me'</h2>
The Rajasthan skipper revealed that he still struggles to accept Buttler's departure, even discussing it with him over dinner during England&rsquo;s recent tour of India. &ldquo;He was like an elder brother to me. When I became captain, he was my vice-captain and played a crucial role in helping me lead the team. During the England series, I told him I still wasn&rsquo;t over it.&rdquo;
Samson also shared his thoughts on the IPL retention rules, saying that while they serve a purpose, they also break long-standing relationships. &ldquo;If I could change one thing about the IPL, it would be the rule of releasing players. While it has its positives, it also means losing connections built over years. It has been tough for me, the franchise, the owners, the coaches&mdash;everyone at RR. Jos was family to us,&rdquo; he added.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rajasthan-royals">Rajasthan Royals</a> will kick off their IPL 2025 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Buttler joined the Royals in 2018 and left in 2024 after the franchise decided against retaining him before the mega-auction last year

Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson opened up about one of the toughest challenges he has faced—parting ways with explosive opener Jos Buttler ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Buttler, who joined the Royals in 2018, was a cornerstone of their batting lineup, scoring 3,098 runs in 83 matches at an impressive average of 41.84. However, ahead of the mega auction, Rajasthan decided against retaining the English star, opting to keep six other players instead. As a result, Buttler entered the auction pool, where Gujarat Titans secured him for over $1 million (₹15.75 crore). Also Read: WPL 2025: Indian batters fail to score as many runs as foreigners at own home? Numbers don't lie Speaking to digital broadcaster Star, Samson expressed his deep bond with Buttler, whom he considers one of his closest friends. “IPL is not just about leading a team at the highest level; it also helps you build lifelong friendships. Jos and I shared a strong batting partnership over seven years, and letting him go has been one of the most difficult things for me,” Samson admitted. 'He was like an elder brother to me' The Rajasthan skipper revealed that he still struggles to accept Buttler's departure, even discussing it with him over dinner during England’s recent tour of India. “He was like an elder brother to me. When I became captain, he was my vice-captain and played a crucial role in helping me lead the team. During the England series, I told him I still wasn’t over it.” Samson also shared his thoughts on the IPL retention rules, saying that while they serve a purpose, they also break long-standing relationships. “If I could change one thing about the IPL, it would be the rule of releasing players. While it has its positives, it also means losing connections built over years. It has been tough for me, the franchise, the owners, the coaches—everyone at RR. Jos was family to us,” he added. Rajasthan Royals will kick off their IPL 2025 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 23 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson still not over...

Former India spinner Ravi Ashwin has criticised T20I skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suryakumar-yadav">Suryakumar Yadav</a> and wicketkeeper-batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson">Sanju Samson</a> for their lackadaisical approach in recently-concluded <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ind-vs-eng">five-T20I series against England</a>. Samson managed just 51 runs in the series with a highest of 26 while SKY could score only 28 runs in five games with a best of 14. India, however, won the series 4-1.
<h2>Ashwin not pleased with SKY, Samson</h2>
"Same ball, same field, same shot, same mistake, same dismissal. I can understand it happening in one or two games, but this is surprising," Ashwin on his YouTube channel.
"When you know a tactic is being used against you, it becomes your responsibility to find a new answer. It is very surprising from both players," said the recently retired offie.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-india-vs-pakistan-tickets-for-feb-23-in-dubai-already-sold-out-8687700">India vs Pakistan tickets for Feb 23 in Dubai already sold out</a>
"Surya is a very experienced guy. He was part of the change of guard for Indian cricket in batting. But I think it's high time he changes his approach a little," he added.
"For Samson, the mind will be playing tricks. If there are many questions in your head, it gets difficult," the spinner opined.
Samson, who has become a regular fixture at the top post the World Cup win in 2024, has played 17 matches since Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's retirement from T20Is and scored 487 runs at a strike rate of 171.
While the wicketkeeper-batter has been able to score one fifty and three hundreds in those games including two consecutive ones, he has failed to enter double digit figure in seven of those matches with four ducks as well.
SKY, on the other hand, has failed even more - scoring just 261 runs at a strike rate of 160 with two fifties in 16 matches since the T20 World Cup victory. The India skipper last scored a 25+ runs in an innings in October 2024 against Bangladesh in October 2024.

Sanju Samson managed just 51 runs in the series with a highest of 26 while SKY scored 28 runs in five games with a best of 14. India, however, won the series 4-1. Cricket Sports

Former India spinner Ravi Ashwin has criticised T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav and wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson for their lackadaisical approach in recently-concluded five-T20I series against England. Samson managed just 51 runs in the series with a highest of 26 while SKY could score only 28 runs in five games with a best of 14. India, however, won the series 4-1. Ashwin not pleased with SKY, Samson "Same ball, same field, same shot, same mistake, same dismissal. I can understand it happening in one or two games, but this is surprising," Ashwin on his YouTube channel. "When you know a tactic is being used against you, it becomes your responsibility to find a new answer. It is very surprising from both players," said the recently retired offie. Also Read: India vs Pakistan tickets for Feb 23 in Dubai already sold out "Surya is a very experienced guy. He was part of the change of guard for Indian cricket in batting. But I think it's high time he changes his approach a little," he added. "For Samson, the mind will be playing tricks. If there are many questions in your head, it gets difficult," the spinner opined. Samson, who has become a regular fixture at the top post the World Cup win in 2024, has played 17 matches since Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's retirement from T20Is and scored 487 runs at a strike rate of 171. While the wicketkeeper-batter has been able to score one fifty and three hundreds in those games including two consecutive ones, he has failed to enter double digit figure in seven of those matches with four ducks as well. SKY, on the other hand, has failed even more - scoring just 261 runs at a strike rate of 160 with two fifties in 16 matches since the T20 World Cup victory. The India skipper last scored a 25+ runs in an innings in October 2024 against Bangladesh in October 2024.

'There are many questions...,' Ravi Ashwin on SKY and Sanju Samson's poor form in England T20Is

Former India batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanjay-manjrekar">Sanjay Manjrekar</a> has spoken out in support of ace wicketkeeper-batsman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson">Sanju Samson</a>. Samson is under the lens for his poor performance in the ongoing five-match T20I series against England.
Samson's scoring in four matches thus far has been 26, 5, 3, and 1. Samson came into the series having scored three centuries in his previous five T20I matches for India, and there were high expectations of him.
However, those runs had come against Bangladesh and a weakened pace attack of South Africa. Against the extreme pace of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jofra-archer">Jofra Archer</a> and Mark Wood, Samson has struggled to get the timing right on his shots.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/u19-world-cup-india-beat-south-africa-by-nine-wickets-to-lift-trophy-8683395">ICC U19 T20 World Cup: India beat South Africa by nine wickets to lift trophy</a>
Players like Samson should be given a long period of failure because of the impact they can have when they have momentum, feels the former Indian crickter.
&ldquo;When you are looking at a T20I talent, batting talent, you have got to see when they are playing well what kind of impact they can make, what contribution they can make. And you see with Sanju Samson, when he plays well, he gets an incredible hundred and puts your team in a winning position.
So, such people are allowed failures and may be a long patch of failures as well because that&rsquo;s the nature of these as a T20 cricketer, where you can&rsquo;t play yourself, where you have to keep taking those risks that they take, and hopefully, there&rsquo;s one innings that just propels him back into form. So, with Sanju Samson, I think you should just make sure that he gets as many innings as possible purely because when he gets into form and plays well, he makes it all worth it.
If that was another guy who was failing in this fashion and when he got into form just got you 40 or 50, then maybe you would offer him a shorter rope. But I will have a lot of patience with this current version of Sanju Samson," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo.
Since taking over as India's opener in the shortest version of the game, Samson, who won the T20 World Cup last year, has amassed 506 runs in 13 matches, including three hundreds and one fifty.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Samson's scoring in four matches thus far has been 26, 5, 3, and 1. Samson entered series having scored three centuries in his previous five T20I matches for India

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has spoken out in support of ace wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson. Samson is under the lens for his poor performance in the ongoing five-match T20I series against England. Samson's scoring in four matches thus far has been 26, 5, 3, and 1. Samson came into the series having scored three centuries in his previous five T20I matches for India, and there were high expectations of him. However, those runs had come against Bangladesh and a weakened pace attack of South Africa. Against the extreme pace of Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, Samson has struggled to get the timing right on his shots. Also Read: ICC U19 T20 World Cup: India beat South Africa by nine wickets to lift trophy Players like Samson should be given a long period of failure because of the impact they can have when they have momentum, feels the former Indian crickter. “When you are looking at a T20I talent, batting talent, you have got to see when they are playing well what kind of impact they can make, what contribution they can make. And you see with Sanju Samson, when he plays well, he gets an incredible hundred and puts your team in a winning position. So, such people are allowed failures and may be a long patch of failures as well because that’s the nature of these as a T20 cricketer, where you can’t play yourself, where you have to keep taking those risks that they take, and hopefully, there’s one innings that just propels him back into form. So, with Sanju Samson, I think you should just make sure that he gets as many innings as possible purely because when he gets into form and plays well, he makes it all worth it. If that was another guy who was failing in this fashion and when he got into form just got you 40 or 50, then maybe you would offer him a shorter rope. But I will have a lot of patience with this current version of Sanju Samson," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo. Since taking over as India's opener in the shortest version of the game, Samson, who won the T20 World Cup last year, has amassed 506 runs in 13 matches, including three hundreds and one fifty. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Talents like Sanju Samson should be allowed...', says former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sanju-samson">Sanju Samson</a>'s non participation in the recently-concluded domestic 50-over tournament Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) may have led to his non-selection in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">2025 Champions Trophy</a> India squad. Samson has featured in the T20I squad for India in the new set-up under Suryakumar Yadav and was a strong contender for a place in the 50-over squad. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), however, selected KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant as the two wicketkeepers in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bumrah-shami-return-to-15-man-india-squad-for-champions-trophy-karun-nair-misses-out-8632588">India Champions Trophy squad</a>.
<h2>Samson blasted by KCA president</h2>
Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) president Jayesh George also spoke about Samson's absence from VHT and said that the player failed to respect the association's policy.
Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/gambhir-wanted-samson-over-pant-pandya-to-be-vice-captain-for-champions-trophy-rohit-agarkar-denied-report-8634867" rel="dofollow">Coach Gambhir wanted Hardik Pandya as vice-captain but Rohit rejected - Report</a>
"I am not sure if Samson missing the tournament was the reason he was excluded. The reason he was not added in the Vijay Hazare squad was because he sent a one-line text saying he would not be available for the 30-member preparatory camp. We were all of the impression that he would be leading the team since he is our white-ball captain and had led in the SMAT season as well," George said in an interview with MediaOne.
&ldquo;So we went ahead and announced the squad and later he sent a message stating he is available for selection. Be it Sanju Samson or any other player, KCA has a policy in place that needs to be respected. We all know that Sanju does not need a camp to come into the squad, but is the Kerala team one that he can come and represent only when he feels like? How did Samson reach the Indian team, it was only through the KCA. That doesn't mean you turn up only when you feel like for the Kerala team,&rdquo; he added.
Samson has played 16 ODIs for India, the last of which was in December 2023 against South Africa, and he went on to score 108 - his only ton in the 50-over format. Overall, Samson has 510 runs in ODIs at an average of 56.66, including three fifties as well.

Samson has played 16 ODIs for India last of which came in December 2023 against South Africa and he went on to score 108 - his only ton in the 50-over format. Cricket Sports

Sanju Samson's non participation in the recently-concluded domestic 50-over tournament Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) may have led to his non-selection in the 2025 Champions Trophy India squad. Samson has featured in the T20I squad for India in the new set-up under Suryakumar Yadav and was a strong contender for a place in the 50-over squad. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), however, selected KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant as the two wicketkeepers in India Champions Trophy squad. Samson blasted by KCA president Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) president Jayesh George also spoke about Samson's absence from VHT and said that the player failed to respect the association's policy. Also Read - Coach Gambhir wanted Hardik Pandya as vice-captain but Rohit rejected - Report "I am not sure if Samson missing the tournament was the reason he was excluded. The reason he was not added in the Vijay Hazare squad was because he sent a one-line text saying he would not be available for the 30-member preparatory camp. We were all of the impression that he would be leading the team since he is our white-ball captain and had led in the SMAT season as well," George said in an interview with MediaOne. “So we went ahead and announced the squad and later he sent a message stating he is available for selection. Be it Sanju Samson or any other player, KCA has a policy in place that needs to be respected. We all know that Sanju does not need a camp to come into the squad, but is the Kerala team one that he can come and represent only when he feels like? How did Samson reach the Indian team, it was only through the KCA. That doesn't mean you turn up only when you feel like for the Kerala team,” he added. Samson has played 16 ODIs for India, the last of which was in December 2023 against South Africa, and he went on to score 108 - his only ton in the 50-over format. Overall, Samson has 510 runs in ODIs at an average of 56.66, including three fifties as well.

Champions Trophy 2025: VHT absence reason behind Sanju Samson's India snub? KCA president responds

Sanju Samson failed to make the cut in Team India&rsquo;s 15-man Champions Trophy 2025 squad announced on Saturday (Jan 18) in Mumbai, and Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has attributed his exclusion to Kerala Cricket Association&rsquo;s (KCA) failure in handling Samson&rsquo;s case. Tharoor alleges the administrators&rsquo; egos have cost Samson a place in India&rsquo;s ODI squad for the first showpiece event of the year.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/coldplays-chris-martin-gives-shout-out-to-indian-cricketer-jasprit-bumrah-during-mumbai-concert-watch-8634470" rel="dofollow">Coldplay&rsquo;s Chris Martin gives shout-out to Bumrah during Mumbai concert &ndash; Watch</a>
Although Samson is part of India&rsquo;s 15-man T20I squad for the England series, starting January 22 in Kolkata, his omission from the One-Day side has more to do with his absence from the just-concluded Vijay Hazare Trophy.
After Samson informed his state association of his unavailability for a preparatory camp ahead of the squad selection last December, KCA enforced their policy of needing the players to appear for the camp, leading to his exclusion from the squad.
&ldquo;The sorry saga of the Kerala Cricket Association and Sanju Samson &ndash; the player wrote to KCA, in advance, regretting his inability to attend a training camp between the SMA and the Vijay Hazare Trophy tournaments, and was promptly dropped from the squad -- has now resulted in Sanju's exclusion from the Indian team,&rdquo; Shashi wrote on his social media handle (X, previously known as Twitter).
&ldquo;A batsman who has a highest score of 212* in the Hazare, who averages 56.66 in ODIs for India (including a century in his last outing, against South Africa) is having his career destroyed by the egos of cricket administrators,&rdquo; he continued.
Meanwhile, Tharoor pointed fingers at the failed management of KCA, asking them tougher questions.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Doesn't it bother the KCA bosses that by leaving Sanju out, they ensured Kerala didn't even reach the quarter-finals of the Hazare? Where does this leave him?&rdquo; Tharoor added.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m63bivmq-que4w1g8-z5piw0n0">
The sorry saga of the Kerala Cricket Association and Sanju Samson -- the player wrote to KCA, in advance, regretting his inability to attend a training camp between the SMA and the Vijay Hazare Trophy tournaments, and was promptly dropped from the squad -- has now resulted in&hellip;
&mdash; Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/1880588056010657798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
Earlier, Samson captained Kerala in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, where his team narrowly failed to make the knockouts, having won four out of six matches. During the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Salman Nizar captained the state team in Sachin Baby&rsquo;s absence, out with an injury.&nbsp;
<h2>Samson&rsquo;s star show and India&rsquo;s Champions Trophy squad</h2>
Samson scored two T20I hundreds during his last international tour (away four-match series against South Africa in November last year), pressing his case for retention in the shortest format. Although he succeeded in his attempt, with India naming him for England T20Is, Samson&rsquo;s decent 50-over record was not enough for him to break into the 15-man Champions Trophy squad.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rishabh-pant-to-captain-lucknow-super-giants-in-ipl-2025-report-8634265" rel="dofollow">Rishabh Pant to captain Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025 &ndash; Report</a>
Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul will share the wicket-keeping duties during both series.
<h3>India&rsquo;s CT 2025 squad &ndash;</h3>
Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor alleges the administrators’ egos have cost Samson a place in India’s ODI squad for the first showpiece event of the year.

Sanju Samson failed to make the cut in Team India’s 15-man Champions Trophy 2025 squad announced on Saturday (Jan 18) in Mumbai, and Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has attributed his exclusion to Kerala Cricket Association’s (KCA) failure in handling Samson’s case. Tharoor alleges the administrators’ egos have cost Samson a place in India’s ODI squad for the first showpiece event of the year. Also read | Coldplay’s Chris Martin gives shout-out to Bumrah during Mumbai concert – Watch Although Samson is part of India’s 15-man T20I squad for the England series, starting January 22 in Kolkata, his omission from the One-Day side has more to do with his absence from the just-concluded Vijay Hazare Trophy. After Samson informed his state association of his unavailability for a preparatory camp ahead of the squad selection last December, KCA enforced their policy of needing the players to appear for the camp, leading to his exclusion from the squad. “The sorry saga of the Kerala Cricket Association and Sanju Samson – the player wrote to KCA, in advance, regretting his inability to attend a training camp between the SMA and the Vijay Hazare Trophy tournaments, and was promptly dropped from the squad -- has now resulted in Sanju's exclusion from the Indian team,” Shashi wrote on his social media handle (X, previously known as Twitter). “A batsman who has a highest score of 212* in the Hazare, who averages 56.66 in ODIs for India (including a century in his last outing, against South Africa) is having his career destroyed by the egos of cricket administrators,” he continued. Meanwhile, Tharoor pointed fingers at the failed management of KCA, asking them tougher questions. “Doesn't it bother the KCA bosses that by leaving Sanju out, they ensured Kerala didn't even reach the quarter-finals of the Hazare? Where does this leave him?” Tharoor added. The sorry saga of the Kerala Cricket Association and Sanju Samson -- the player wrote to KCA, in advance, regretting his inability to attend a training camp between the SMA and the Vijay Hazare Trophy tournaments, and was promptly dropped from the squad -- has now resulted in… — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) January 18, 2025 Earlier, Samson captained Kerala in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024, where his team narrowly failed to make the knockouts, having won four out of six matches. During the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Salman Nizar captained the state team in Sachin Baby’s absence, out with an injury. Samson’s star show and India’s Champions Trophy squad Samson scored two T20I hundreds during his last international tour (away four-match series against South Africa in November last year), pressing his case for retention in the shortest format. Although he succeeded in his attempt, with India naming him for England T20Is, Samson’s decent 50-over record was not enough for him to break into the 15-man Champions Trophy squad. Also read | Rishabh Pant to captain Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025 – Report Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul will share the wicket-keeping duties during both series. India’s CT 2025 squad – Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja (With inputs from agencies)

'Destroyed by egos...,' Shashi Tharoor blames state administrators for Samson's CT omission

Sanju Samson decided against playing (for Kerala) in the Vijay Hazare Trophy this season for personal reasons, with the BCCI launching a probe into this days before the Champions Trophy 2025 squad announcement. Samson is among the two keeper-batters alongside Rishabh Pant, considered for selection for the eight-team tournament starting next month; however, his absence could hurt his chances of another India call-up for an ICC tournament.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/domestic-cricket-participation-mandatory-for-india-selection-bcci-8628805" rel="dofollow">Domestic cricket participation 'mandatory' for India selection: BCCI</a>
The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) overlooked Samson after he expressed unavailability for a preparatory camp ahead of the tournament. KCA Secretary Vinod S Kumar stated that the association didn&rsquo;t want a youngster to lose his place because of Samson&rsquo;s uncertain availability status. &nbsp;
Per the latest reports, the sources close to the information revealed the selectors could bring this matter up during the Champions Trophy squad announcement meeting scheduled this week. The source added that the selectors are clear on keeping domestic cricket paramount, citing Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer&rsquo;s examples of how they faced the wrath of devaluing India&rsquo;s domestic cricket.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The selectors and the board have been very clear on the importance of domestic cricket. Last year, Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer lost central contracts for missing domestic matches without seeking permission. Even in Samson's case, the board and selectors were not given any reason why he missed the tournament. All that is known so far is that he spends much of his time in Dubai," a BCCI source said, as quoted by the Times of India (TOI).&nbsp;
<h2>Samson&rsquo;s ODI place under threat</h2>
Although the selectors have named Samson in the T20I squad for the England series, starting January 22 in Kolkata, his absence from the domestic 50-over tournament is a crucial parameter for his selection in the ODI side (for England series and the Champions Trophy).&nbsp;
&ldquo;The selectors would want a valid reason. Otherwise, it will be difficult to consider him for the ODI season.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Samson has had a bitter history with the KCA, but that needs to be sorted out for him to play in domestic cricket. It can't be that the state association and him have a misunderstanding, and he misses out on game time. He did play in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy preceding the Vijay Hazare Trophy," the source continued.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, KL Rahul, who kept wickets during the ODI World Cup two years ago, is unlikely to continue as a keeper-batter, while also considering his series of hamstring injuries over the past two years.&nbsp;
With him out of contention, Pant leads the race for a comeback in the ODI Team, with the selectors contemplating having the backup option.
The Champions Trophy 2025 begins on February 19 in Pakistan. While the hosts will play their matches in their country, India will play all their games in Dubai, including the marquee clash against Pakistan (February 23). &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: The selectors have named Samson in the 15-man T20I squad for the England series starting January 22. The Champions Trophy squad announcement is expected soon.

Sanju Samson decided against playing (for Kerala) in the Vijay Hazare Trophy this season for personal reasons, with the BCCI launching a probe into this days before the Champions Trophy 2025 squad announcement. Samson is among the two keeper-batters alongside Rishabh Pant, considered for selection for the eight-team tournament starting next month; however, his absence could hurt his chances of another India call-up for an ICC tournament. Also read | Domestic cricket participation 'mandatory' for India selection: BCCI The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) overlooked Samson after he expressed unavailability for a preparatory camp ahead of the tournament. KCA Secretary Vinod S Kumar stated that the association didn’t want a youngster to lose his place because of Samson’s uncertain availability status. Per the latest reports, the sources close to the information revealed the selectors could bring this matter up during the Champions Trophy squad announcement meeting scheduled this week. The source added that the selectors are clear on keeping domestic cricket paramount, citing Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer’s examples of how they faced the wrath of devaluing India’s domestic cricket. “The selectors and the board have been very clear on the importance of domestic cricket. Last year, Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer lost central contracts for missing domestic matches without seeking permission. Even in Samson's case, the board and selectors were not given any reason why he missed the tournament. All that is known so far is that he spends much of his time in Dubai," a BCCI source said, as quoted by the Times of India (TOI). Samson’s ODI place under threat Although the selectors have named Samson in the T20I squad for the England series, starting January 22 in Kolkata, his absence from the domestic 50-over tournament is a crucial parameter for his selection in the ODI side (for England series and the Champions Trophy). “The selectors would want a valid reason. Otherwise, it will be difficult to consider him for the ODI season. “Samson has had a bitter history with the KCA, but that needs to be sorted out for him to play in domestic cricket. It can't be that the state association and him have a misunderstanding, and he misses out on game time. He did play in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy preceding the Vijay Hazare Trophy," the source continued. Meanwhile, KL Rahul, who kept wickets during the ODI World Cup two years ago, is unlikely to continue as a keeper-batter, while also considering his series of hamstring injuries over the past two years. With him out of contention, Pant leads the race for a comeback in the ODI Team, with the selectors contemplating having the backup option. The Champions Trophy 2025 begins on February 19 in Pakistan. While the hosts will play their matches in their country, India will play all their games in Dubai, including the marquee clash against Pakistan (February 23). (With inputs from agencies)

Samson's absence from Vijay Hazare Trophy could hurt his Champions Trophy chances

Sanju Samson was on a rampage during the fourth and final T20I against South Africa at the Wanderers on Friday (Nov 15), hitting his second hundred of the series and third in the last five games. Though he and Tilak Varma, fellow centurion, entertained the Johannesburg crowd with an excellent show, one of Samson’s nine sixes left a fan in the stands inconsolable after the ball deflected from the boundary boards only to hit her on the face.

The shot hit off Tristan Stubbs’ flighted delivery was hard, but the blow was harder, as replays showed how impactful it was. While the onlookers immediately jumped to her rescue, bringing her the ice pack as she continued weeping, Samson also raised his hand to apologise.&nbsp;

WATCH VIDEO -

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Wishing a quick recovery for the injured fan! 🤕🤞 
 
Keep watching the 4th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> T20I LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinema</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sports18</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ColorsCineplex?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ColorsCineplex</a> 👈<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinemaSports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinemaSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/KMtBnOa1Hj">pic.twitter.com/KMtBnOa1Hj</a>
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema/status/1857463615487619132?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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He, however, wasn't apologetic to the South African fans for the mauling he did to their bowlers in the game, which India won by a whopping 135 runs, claiming the four-match series 3-1.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sa-vs-ind-4th-t20i-samson-varma-smash-records-left-right-and-centre-as-india-pocket-series-3-1-776566">SA vs IND, 4th T20I: Samson, Varma smash records left, right and centre as India pocket series 3-1</a>

After scores of 107, 0 and 0 in three contested matches against the Proteas thus far, Samson wanted to finish this series on a high, and he did that with utter dominance.

Opening alongside Abhishek Sharma in the series decider, Samson began with the onslaught, with the left-handed Sharma joining him soon.&nbsp;

The pair added 73 for the first wicket inside the Powerplay, but the real entertainment began afterwards.

With Tilak Varma coming in at number three, a position at which he slammed his maiden T20I hundred in the previous game, he continued from where he left off at the SuperSport Park in Centurion. The dynamite duo whacked every bowler to all parts of the ground, completing their hundreds, breaking records and creating history.&nbsp;

India hammered 283 runs for just one wicket in 20 overs, with Samson and Varma adding 210 for the second wicket.

<h2>Proteas no competition to India</h2>

Although the hosts won the second game at St George's Park in Gqeberha while coming agonisingly close to winning the next one, chasing a daunting 284 turned out too much for them.&nbsp;

Following the worst possible start, where they were reduced to 10 for four inside the first three overs, with Arshdeep wreaking havoc with his three-wicket haul, David Miller and Stubbs stitched an 86-run stand for the fifth wicket. That partnership tried compensating for the horrible beginning but failed to get their team anywhere close to the chasing target, as South Africa got all out for 148, going down by 135 runs.

With this win, India finished 2024 with 24 victories out of 26 contested T20I matches, including winning their second T20 World Cup in the Americas early in June.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Sanju Samson was on a rampage during the fourth and final T20I against South Africa at the Wanderers on Friday (Nov 15), hitting his second hundred of the series and third in the last five games.

Sanju Samson was on a rampage during the fourth and final T20I against South Africa at the Wanderers on Friday (Nov 15), hitting his second hundred of the series and third in the last five games. Though he and Tilak Varma, fellow centurion, entertained the Johannesburg crowd with an excellent show, one of Samson’s nine sixes left a fan in the stands inconsolable after the ball deflected from the boundary boards only to hit her on the face. The shot hit off Tristan Stubbs’ flighted delivery was hard, but the blow was harder, as replays showed how impactful it was. While the onlookers immediately jumped to her rescue, bringing her the ice pack as she continued weeping, Samson also raised his hand to apologise. WATCH VIDEO - Wishing a quick recovery for the injured fan! 🤕🤞 Keep watching the 4th #SAvIND T20I LIVE on #JioCinema, #Sports18 & #ColorsCineplex 👈#JioCinemaSports pic.twitter.com/KMtBnOa1Hj — JioCinema (@JioCinema) November 15, 2024 × He, however, wasn't apologetic to the South African fans for the mauling he did to their bowlers in the game, which India won by a whopping 135 runs, claiming the four-match series 3-1. ALSO READ: SA vs IND, 4th T20I: Samson, Varma smash records left, right and centre as India pocket series 3-1 After scores of 107, 0 and 0 in three contested matches against the Proteas thus far, Samson wanted to finish this series on a high, and he did that with utter dominance. Opening alongside Abhishek Sharma in the series decider, Samson began with the onslaught, with the left-handed Sharma joining him soon. The pair added 73 for the first wicket inside the Powerplay, but the real entertainment began afterwards. With Tilak Varma coming in at number three, a position at which he slammed his maiden T20I hundred in the previous game, he continued from where he left off at the SuperSport Park in Centurion. The dynamite duo whacked every bowler to all parts of the ground, completing their hundreds, breaking records and creating history. India hammered 283 runs for just one wicket in 20 overs, with Samson and Varma adding 210 for the second wicket. Proteas no competition to India Although the hosts won the second game at St George's Park in Gqeberha while coming agonisingly close to winning the next one, chasing a daunting 284 turned out too much for them. Following the worst possible start, where they were reduced to 10 for four inside the first three overs, with Arshdeep wreaking havoc with his three-wicket haul, David Miller and Stubbs stitched an 86-run stand for the fifth wicket. That partnership tried compensating for the horrible beginning but failed to get their team anywhere close to the chasing target, as South Africa got all out for 148, going down by 135 runs. With this win, India finished 2024 with 24 victories out of 26 contested T20I matches, including winning their second T20 World Cup in the Americas early in June. (With inputs from agencies)

SA v IND, 4th T20I: Female fan inconsolable after Samson's six hits her face, batter apologises - WATCH

India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav said that the key to their series win against South Africa was adapting to the conditions. India won the four-match series 3-1 after beating South Africa in the final T20I on Friday (Nov 15). India posted a humongous total of 283/1 in 20 overs in the fourth game with both Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma hitting unbeaten centuries.

“There’s no secret to adapting to the conditions. Our plans were very clear as soon as we landed in Durban. Though we were up 2-1 in the series, today we wanted to follow good habits and not worry about the result," Surya said at the post-match presentation.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-v-ind-4th-t20i-female-fan-inconsolable-after-samsons-six-hits-her-face-batter-apologises-watch-776614">SA v IND, 4th T20I: Female fan inconsolable after Samson's six hits her face, batter apologises - WATCH</a>

“It happened naturally. It’s very difficult for me to choose one good knock from them, we spoke about that and they walked the talk," he added.

The Indian skipper also shared that the experience from their last tour also helped as they knew how the wicket was going to play.

“When we toured last year, we knew there was something in this wicket once the lights were on and the temperature dropped. It gives a big boost if you are winning any ICC tournament. It was difficult to sum up what went through our minds when we won there," Surya said.

“It is very challenging when we tour South Africa, this is a special win and will stay with me forever," he added.

“They (coaching staff) were sitting and enjoying the show, they spoke to the boys and said whatever you want, you do, we will sit and enjoy. Even today, they say if you want to bat first and put runs on the board, do it," concluded the skipper.

Chasing the total, South Africa could never get going and managed only 148 in reply and lost the match by 135 runs.

India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav said that the key to their series win against South Africa was adapting to the conditions. India won the four-match series 3-1 after beating South Africa in the final T20I on Friday (Nov 15).

India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav said that the key to their series win against South Africa was adapting to the conditions. India won the four-match series 3-1 after beating South Africa in the final T20I on Friday (Nov 15). India posted a humongous total of 283/1 in 20 overs in the fourth game with both Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma hitting unbeaten centuries. “There’s no secret to adapting to the conditions. Our plans were very clear as soon as we landed in Durban. Though we were up 2-1 in the series, today we wanted to follow good habits and not worry about the result," Surya said at the post-match presentation. Also Read: SA v IND, 4th T20I: Female fan inconsolable after Samson's six hits her face, batter apologises - WATCH “It happened naturally. It’s very difficult for me to choose one good knock from them, we spoke about that and they walked the talk," he added. The Indian skipper also shared that the experience from their last tour also helped as they knew how the wicket was going to play. “When we toured last year, we knew there was something in this wicket once the lights were on and the temperature dropped. It gives a big boost if you are winning any ICC tournament. It was difficult to sum up what went through our minds when we won there," Surya said. “It is very challenging when we tour South Africa, this is a special win and will stay with me forever," he added. “They (coaching staff) were sitting and enjoying the show, they spoke to the boys and said whatever you want, you do, we will sit and enjoy. Even today, they say if you want to bat first and put runs on the board, do it," concluded the skipper. Chasing the total, South Africa could never get going and managed only 148 in reply and lost the match by 135 runs.

'Difficult for me to....,' India skipper Suryakumar on Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma's record-breaking innings

Team India shattered multiple records on Friday (Nov 16) evening as they beat hosts South Africa 3-1 in the four-match T20I series. Playing at the iconic Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg India beat South Africa by a massive 135 runs as Tilak Varma (unbeaten 120) and Sanju Samson (unbeaten 109) scored their second tons of the series. The series win also drops curtains on India’s successful white-ball campaign for 2024 where they lifted the T20 World Cup in the Caribbean islands.

<h2>Samson, Varma on a roll with bat</h2>

It was the second-highest T20 total between Test nations, just 14 runs short of the 297 for six that India made against Bangladesh in Hyderabad last month. The Indian batsmen hit 23 sixes –- a record between Test countries. Varma hit 10, Samson nine and Abhishek Sharma lashed four sixes before he was the only batsman dismissed, for 36.

The Indian score of 283/1 is also the second highest for any Test-playing nation with the Men in Blue also holding the record for top one. India set the record on 12th October for the highest team total for a Test-playing nation when they smashed Bangladesh for 297 runs.

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<h2>South Africa crumble with the bat</h2>

Needing 284 runs to level the series, the Proteas were 10/4 and lost their way in the powerplay while chasing. Ryan Rickelton (1), Reeza Hendricks (0) and Aiden Markram (8) were on the receiving end of a good Indian bowling attack. At the same time, Heinrich Klaasen departed for a golden duck, as Arshdeep Singh showed his class with the ball.

After the 86-run stand between Tristan Stubbs (43) and David Miller (36), South Africa again lost control of their innings and were bowled out for 148 in 18.2 overs. Arshedep ended with figures of 18/3 while Varun Chakaravarthy and Axar Patel also bagged two wickets each for the Men in Blue.

Team India shattered multiple records on Friday (Nov 16) evening as they beat hosts South Africa 3-1 in the four-match T20I series. Playing at the iconic Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg India beat South Africa by a massive 135 runs as Tilak Varma (unbeaten 120) and Sanju Samson (unbeaten 109) scored their second tons of the series.

Team India shattered multiple records on Friday (Nov 16) evening as they beat hosts South Africa 3-1 in the four-match T20I series. Playing at the iconic Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg India beat South Africa by a massive 135 runs as Tilak Varma (unbeaten 120) and Sanju Samson (unbeaten 109) scored their second tons of the series. The series win also drops curtains on India’s successful white-ball campaign for 2024 where they lifted the T20 World Cup in the Caribbean islands. Samson, Varma on a roll with bat It was the second-highest T20 total between Test nations, just 14 runs short of the 297 for six that India made against Bangladesh in Hyderabad last month. The Indian batsmen hit 23 sixes –- a record between Test countries. Varma hit 10, Samson nine and Abhishek Sharma lashed four sixes before he was the only batsman dismissed, for 36. The Indian score of 283/1 is also the second highest for any Test-playing nation with the Men in Blue also holding the record for top one. India set the record on 12th October for the highest team total for a Test-playing nation when they smashed Bangladesh for 297 runs. ALSO READ | Premier League: Ruben Amorim says Man Utd is 'where I'm supposed to be' South Africa crumble with the bat Needing 284 runs to level the series, the Proteas were 10/4 and lost their way in the powerplay while chasing. Ryan Rickelton (1), Reeza Hendricks (0) and Aiden Markram (8) were on the receiving end of a good Indian bowling attack. At the same time, Heinrich Klaasen departed for a golden duck, as Arshdeep Singh showed his class with the ball. After the 86-run stand between Tristan Stubbs (43) and David Miller (36), South Africa again lost control of their innings and were bowled out for 148 in 18.2 overs. Arshedep ended with figures of 18/3 while Varun Chakaravarthy and Axar Patel also bagged two wickets each for the Men in Blue.

SA vs IND, 4th T20I: Samson, Varma smash records left, right and centre as India pocket series 3-1

Sanju Samson's father&nbsp;Vishwanath Samson has made heads turn with his statement on MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid. Vishwanath accused the India greats&nbsp;of wasting his son's 10 precious years by not giving him a longer run&nbsp;at the international level (having hardly played under Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit's captaincy). The stylish right-hander made his India debut in 2015 but only since 2022, Samson has been getting a fair run in white-ball cricket. The 30-year-old's career has been marred with inconsistencies but&nbsp;recently he became the first Indian to slam consecutive T20I centuries during India's ongoing four-match series versus South Africa, in the African nation.

<h2>'Dhoni, Kohli, Rohit and Dravid&nbsp;destroyed 10 years of my son's life'</h2>

Vishwanath,&nbsp;in a recent interview with a Kerala-based news outlet, Media One, said, "There are 3-4 people who wasted 10 years of my son's vital career... captains like Dhoni ji, Virat [Kohli] ji, Rohit [Sharma] ji, and coach [Rahul] Dravid ji," he said, stating that they had "destroyed 10 years of my son's life."

Despite the setbacks, Vishwanath was all praise for his son and further opined,&nbsp;"The more they hurt him, the stronger Sanju came out of the crisis."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-sa-3rd-t20i-tilak-varmas-maiden-ton-gives-india-unbeatable-series-lead-in-high-scoring-thriller-775993">Ind vs SA, 3rd T20I: Tilak Varma's maiden ton gives India unbeatable series lead in high-scoring thriller</a>

Vishwanath also hit back at Kris Srikkanth for belittling Sanju's achievements, particularly after he scored his maiden T20I century (against Bangladesh) last month. In this regard, he added, "What hurt me really bad was comments from [Kris] Srikkanth, the player from Tamil Nadu. He said, 'against whom did Sanju score a century? It was only Bangladesh.' Century is a century, and that guy has scored only 26 runs against Bangladesh. Sanju has scored a hundred and he is a player with a classical touch like Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. At least respect that."

At present, Samson has been inconsistent in the four T20Is versus Proteas. He started the series with his second T20I ton, scoring a magnificent 107, but&nbsp;followed it up with two successive ducks. He will be eager to score big in the fourth and final T20I, on Friday (Nov 15) in Johannesburg. The Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team have an unassailable 2-1 lead&nbsp;after a narrow 11-run win in the penultimate tie, in Centurion, on Wednesday (Nov 13).

Sanju Samson's father Vishwanath Samson has made heads turn with his statement on MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid. Vishwanath accused the India greats of wasting his son's 10 precious years by not giving him a longer run at the international level (having hardly played under Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit's captaincy).

Sanju Samson's father Vishwanath Samson has made heads turn with his statement on MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid. Vishwanath accused the India greats of wasting his son's 10 precious years by not giving him a longer run at the international level (having hardly played under Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit's captaincy). The stylish right-hander made his India debut in 2015 but only since 2022, Samson has been getting a fair run in white-ball cricket. The 30-year-old's career has been marred with inconsistencies but recently he became the first Indian to slam consecutive T20I centuries during India's ongoing four-match series versus South Africa, in the African nation. 'Dhoni, Kohli, Rohit and Dravid destroyed 10 years of my son's life' Vishwanath, in a recent interview with a Kerala-based news outlet, Media One, said, "There are 3-4 people who wasted 10 years of my son's vital career... captains like Dhoni ji, Virat [Kohli] ji, Rohit [Sharma] ji, and coach [Rahul] Dravid ji," he said, stating that they had "destroyed 10 years of my son's life." Despite the setbacks, Vishwanath was all praise for his son and further opined, "The more they hurt him, the stronger Sanju came out of the crisis." Also read: Ind vs SA, 3rd T20I: Tilak Varma's maiden ton gives India unbeatable series lead in high-scoring thriller Vishwanath also hit back at Kris Srikkanth for belittling Sanju's achievements, particularly after he scored his maiden T20I century (against Bangladesh) last month. In this regard, he added, "What hurt me really bad was comments from [Kris] Srikkanth, the player from Tamil Nadu. He said, 'against whom did Sanju score a century? It was only Bangladesh.' Century is a century, and that guy has scored only 26 runs against Bangladesh. Sanju has scored a hundred and he is a player with a classical touch like Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. At least respect that." At present, Samson has been inconsistent in the four T20Is versus Proteas. He started the series with his second T20I ton, scoring a magnificent 107, but followed it up with two successive ducks. He will be eager to score big in the fourth and final T20I, on Friday (Nov 15) in Johannesburg. The Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team have an unassailable 2-1 lead after a narrow 11-run win in the penultimate tie, in Centurion, on Wednesday (Nov 13).

MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit and Dravid wasted 10 years of my son's career, claims Sanju Samson's father

Former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik feels Sanju Samson has cemented his spot as an opener in T20Is. During the ongoing India-South Africa series, in the African nation, Samson struck a magnificent 107 -- becoming the first Indian to hit successive T20I centuries -- in the first T20I, in Durban. Riding on his ton, Suryakumar Yadav-led Men in Blue thrashed Aiden Markram-led hosts by 61 runs. Sanju, however, failed to get going in the second T20I, being out for a 3-ball duck as SA levelled the series with a three-wicket win in&nbsp;Gqeberha.&nbsp;

Speaking on Samson, DK lavished praise on the Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper and labelled him a 'special player'. Karthik feels Samson has made a few technical changes to his game and focused on six-hitting, making him a force to reckon with in T20Is.

Speaking on Cricbuzz, DK said, "I think he [Samson] has cemented his spot as an opener. Yashasvi Jaiswal and him will be the openers at least for some time to come in the T20 format. He has made a lot of technical changes, especially suited to this format. He focused a lot on six-hitting."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/gambhir-is-a-prickly-character-so-im-not-surprised-ponting-hits-back-at-india-coach-defends-take-on-kohli-775764">Also read: Gambhir is a prickly character, so I’m not surprised: Ponting hits back at India coach, defends take on Kohli</a>

Karthik further highlighted, "Against Keshav Maharaj, he stepped out but missed the length of the ball (in the first T20I). Maharaj did brilliantly to beat him in the air, but Sanju held his position and waited on the shot, hitting it over covers. That's a man who, even when he misses the length, doesn't panic and holds that extra second." He added, "That's a very tough skill to have, but he does it very well. That's what makes him very special."

Samson would be keen to get another big score in the third and penultimate T20I, which will be held in Centurion on Wednesday (Nov 13). The four-match series is interestingly poised at 1-1.

Former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik feels Sanju Samson has cemented his spot as an opener in T20Is. During the ongoing India-South Africa series, in the African nation, Samson struck a magnificent 107 -- becoming the first Indian to hit successive T20I centuries -- in the first T20I, in Durban.

Former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik feels Sanju Samson has cemented his spot as an opener in T20Is. During the ongoing India-South Africa series, in the African nation, Samson struck a magnificent 107 -- becoming the first Indian to hit successive T20I centuries -- in the first T20I, in Durban. Riding on his ton, Suryakumar Yadav-led Men in Blue thrashed Aiden Markram-led hosts by 61 runs. Sanju, however, failed to get going in the second T20I, being out for a 3-ball duck as SA levelled the series with a three-wicket win in Gqeberha. Speaking on Samson, DK lavished praise on the Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper and labelled him a 'special player'. Karthik feels Samson has made a few technical changes to his game and focused on six-hitting, making him a force to reckon with in T20Is. Speaking on Cricbuzz, DK said, "I think he [Samson] has cemented his spot as an opener. Yashasvi Jaiswal and him will be the openers at least for some time to come in the T20 format. He has made a lot of technical changes, especially suited to this format. He focused a lot on six-hitting." Also read: Gambhir is a prickly character, so I’m not surprised: Ponting hits back at India coach, defends take on Kohli Karthik further highlighted, "Against Keshav Maharaj, he stepped out but missed the length of the ball (in the first T20I). Maharaj did brilliantly to beat him in the air, but Sanju held his position and waited on the shot, hitting it over covers. That's a man who, even when he misses the length, doesn't panic and holds that extra second." He added, "That's a very tough skill to have, but he does it very well. That's what makes him very special." Samson would be keen to get another big score in the third and penultimate T20I, which will be held in Centurion on Wednesday (Nov 13). The four-match series is interestingly poised at 1-1.

IND vs SA: Karthik lauds 'special player' Sanju Samson, feels he has 'cemented his spot as T20I opener'

India opener Sanju Samson scored a sparkling century as the tourists beat South Africa by 61 runs in the first match of a four-game Twenty20 series at Kingsmead in Durban on Friday.

South Africa asked India to bat and the visitors posted 202 for eight in their 20 overs, before restricting their hosts to 141 all out in 17.5 overs for a comprehensive victory.

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India’s total was boosted by a brilliant 107 from 50 balls by Samson but the innings did stall towards the end.

Samson smashed 10 sixes and seven fours as he tore into the bowling at the small Kingsmead ground. He rattled along at a strike rate of 214, providing more than half his team’s total.

At 167-2 in the 15th over, India looked on course for a score well in excess of 200, but managed only another 35 runs in 32 balls for the loss of six wickets after Tilak Varma was dismissed for 33.

Seamers Marco Jansen (1-24 in four overs) and Gerald Coetzee (3-37) were the pick of the home attack.

India’s legbreak bowlers stifled the South African reply as their innings never managed to gain momentum.

Varun Chakravarthy took 3-25 as he picked up the key wickets of Heinrich Klaasen (25) and David Miller (18), while Ravi Bishnoi recorded figures of 3-28.

The second match of the series will be played in Gqeberha on Sunday.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India opener Sanju Samson scored a sparkling century as the tourists beat South Africa by 61 runs in the first match of a four-game Twenty20 series at Kingsmead in Durban on Friday.

India opener Sanju Samson scored a sparkling century as the tourists beat South Africa by 61 runs in the first match of a four-game Twenty20 series at Kingsmead in Durban on Friday. South Africa asked India to bat and the visitors posted 202 for eight in their 20 overs, before restricting their hosts to 141 all out in 17.5 overs for a comprehensive victory. ALSO READ: Foes to friends: When Merv Hughes rescued Ian Botham from crocodile-infested water India’s total was boosted by a brilliant 107 from 50 balls by Samson but the innings did stall towards the end. Samson smashed 10 sixes and seven fours as he tore into the bowling at the small Kingsmead ground. He rattled along at a strike rate of 214, providing more than half his team’s total. At 167-2 in the 15th over, India looked on course for a score well in excess of 200, but managed only another 35 runs in 32 balls for the loss of six wickets after Tilak Varma was dismissed for 33. Seamers Marco Jansen (1-24 in four overs) and Gerald Coetzee (3-37) were the pick of the home attack. India’s legbreak bowlers stifled the South African reply as their innings never managed to gain momentum. Varun Chakravarthy took 3-25 as he picked up the key wickets of Heinrich Klaasen (25) and David Miller (18), while Ravi Bishnoi recorded figures of 3-28. The second match of the series will be played in Gqeberha on Sunday. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sanju Samson’s 107 lifts India to win over South Africa in Durban T20I

India T20I opener Sanju Samson has revealed that backing from skipper Suryakumar Yadav helped him get clarity which reflected in his performance. Samson made the comments after hitting his second consecutive T20I century during the first match against South Africa on Friday (Nov 9).

"When I was playing Duleep Trophy, in the second match, Surya was playing for the other team and during the match itself, &nbsp;he told me you are going to play next 7 matches, you are going to open the innings in the next 7 games. Whatever happens, I will fully back you," Samson told the broadcasters after India won the game by 61 runs to take 1-0 lead in the four-match series.

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Before the match against SA, Samson had also hit a ton during the third and last T20I against Bangladesh at home - he his only the fourth player in the history to hit back-to-back T20I centuries.

"I got so much clarity after that (Surya's backing). For the first time in my career, I got such clarity that I have 7 matches, so I came out with a different determination. I had to do something different. If you get such clarity and confidence from captain, then it reflects differently on the ground as well. The team management gave me that clarity way ahead that 7 matches (3 vs Bangladesh and 4 vs South Africa) I will be opening. I am not looking too far. Just looking to contribute to the team's cause," Samson added.

The Kerala batter also hit 10 sixes during his innings of 107 off 50 balls - the most for an Indian batter in a T20I innings. India have three more matches in the series before they host England for five T20Is in January-February 2025.&nbsp;

India T20I opener Sanju Samson has revealed that backing from skipper Suryakumar Yadav helped him get clarity which reflected in his performance. Samson made the comments after hitting his second consecutive T20I century during the first match against South Africa on Friday (Nov 9).

India T20I opener Sanju Samson has revealed that backing from skipper Suryakumar Yadav helped him get clarity which reflected in his performance. Samson made the comments after hitting his second consecutive T20I century during the first match against South Africa on Friday (Nov 9). "When I was playing Duleep Trophy, in the second match, Surya was playing for the other team and during the match itself, he told me you are going to play next 7 matches, you are going to open the innings in the next 7 games. Whatever happens, I will fully back you," Samson told the broadcasters after India won the game by 61 runs to take 1-0 lead in the four-match series. Also Read: 'If they don't come...,' PCB chief on reports of India not coming to Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Before the match against SA, Samson had also hit a ton during the third and last T20I against Bangladesh at home - he his only the fourth player in the history to hit back-to-back T20I centuries. "I got so much clarity after that (Surya's backing). For the first time in my career, I got such clarity that I have 7 matches, so I came out with a different determination. I had to do something different. If you get such clarity and confidence from captain, then it reflects differently on the ground as well. The team management gave me that clarity way ahead that 7 matches (3 vs Bangladesh and 4 vs South Africa) I will be opening. I am not looking too far. Just looking to contribute to the team's cause," Samson added. The Kerala batter also hit 10 sixes during his innings of 107 off 50 balls - the most for an Indian batter in a T20I innings. India have three more matches in the series before they host England for five T20Is in January-February 2025.

'Came out with a different...,' Sanju Samson reveals role of India skipper SKY's backing in his performance

Sanju Samson smashed his maiden T20I ton during the home Bangladesh series, early this month. The right-hander was part of the Rohit Sharma-led India squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, co-hosted by West Indies and the USA, eventually won by the Men in Blue. While he warmed the bench during the group stage, Super Sixes and semifinal, he was asked to 'be ready' for the final, versus South Africa in Barbados on June 29. However, India went ahead with an unchanged&nbsp;XI. Samson recently recalled his snub and how captain Rohit spent a lot of time with him, prior to the game, explaining his omission and, thereby, winning his heart.&nbsp;

Samson told journalist Vimal Kumar in an interview, "I had a chance to play the final. I was told to stay ready. I was ready. However, they decided before the toss that we would go with the same team. I was like, no worries. I was in that type of mood."

He&nbsp;mentioned, "During the warm-up, Rohit took me to the side and started to explain to me why he is making that decision. He was like, You understood, na? You know his way, very casual? I told him, 'Let us win the match and then talk.' You focus on the match."

<h2>'I will have a regret to not play a World Cup final with a leader like you'</h2>

Samson then stated, "He (Rohit) came back one minute later and said, 'I know you are cursing me in your mind.' I think you are not happy. I feel like you have something on your mind. Then we had a discussion."

The swashbuckling batter&nbsp;further opined, "I told him, 'As a player, I want to play'. Since childhood, I wanted to come here and do something. Then he was like, 'My pattern is like this' and all that. I said I totally respect that you came and explained me. I said, 'I will have a regret; I could not play a World Cup final with a leader like you.' This will be a regret in my heart that I missed a World Cup final with a leader like Rohit Sharma. That will stay in my life."

The Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper revealed how Hitman won his heart with his gesture just ahead of the big-ticket finale. "After this, I thought, such a big thing like a World Cup final. Before the final, you have changed your decision. You spent 10 minutes with the player that is not playing just before the toss. He gave me 10 minutes before the toss. After that, I got to know this person has some other qualities."

"If I were in their place, I would be thinking about the players who are playing or my batting. I will explain to Sanju later; that is what normally you think. At that point, he thought 'I have to explain to Sanju, why I took that decision.' At that point, he won a place in my heart that will stay for a lifetime," Samson added.

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Instead of Samson, Indian team management trusted Rishabh Pant to do the job behind the stumps despite his ordinary returns with the bat throughout the mega event. Moreover, even Shivam Dube didn't have a fruitful run, hence, many contemplated Samson would get a look-in before the summit clash. However, India didn't tweak their winning combination and it resulted in both Pant and Dube playing key roles in India's win. While Pant smartly halted the game for sometime before the end overs, when the momentum was firmly with South Africa, whereas Dube smashed a vital 16-ball 27 as India posted 178-7 (mainly riding on Virat Kohli's 76 and Axar Patel's 47) after opting to bat first at the Kensington Oval.

In reply, SA were in prime position and only needed 30 off the last five overs before Jasprit Bumrah (2 for 18), Arshdeep Singh (2 for 20) and Hardik Pandya (3 for 20)'s death-overs bowling masterclass took India to a famous seven-run win. Post the historic win, Rohit and Kohli retired from T20Is.

Sanju Samson smashed his maiden T20I ton during the home Bangladesh series, early this month. The right-hander was part of the Rohit Sharma-led India squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, co-hosted by West Indies and the USA, eventually won by the Men in Blue.

Sanju Samson smashed his maiden T20I ton during the home Bangladesh series, early this month. The right-hander was part of the Rohit Sharma-led India squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, co-hosted by West Indies and the USA, eventually won by the Men in Blue. While he warmed the bench during the group stage, Super Sixes and semifinal, he was asked to 'be ready' for the final, versus South Africa in Barbados on June 29. However, India went ahead with an unchanged XI. Samson recently recalled his snub and how captain Rohit spent a lot of time with him, prior to the game, explaining his omission and, thereby, winning his heart. Samson told journalist Vimal Kumar in an interview, "I had a chance to play the final. I was told to stay ready. I was ready. However, they decided before the toss that we would go with the same team. I was like, no worries. I was in that type of mood." He mentioned, "During the warm-up, Rohit took me to the side and started to explain to me why he is making that decision. He was like, You understood, na? You know his way, very casual? I told him, 'Let us win the match and then talk.' You focus on the match." 'I will have a regret to not play a World Cup final with a leader like you' Samson then stated, "He (Rohit) came back one minute later and said, 'I know you are cursing me in your mind.' I think you are not happy. I feel like you have something on your mind. Then we had a discussion." The swashbuckling batter further opined, "I told him, 'As a player, I want to play'. Since childhood, I wanted to come here and do something. Then he was like, 'My pattern is like this' and all that. I said I totally respect that you came and explained me. I said, 'I will have a regret; I could not play a World Cup final with a leader like you.' This will be a regret in my heart that I missed a World Cup final with a leader like Rohit Sharma. That will stay in my life." The Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper revealed how Hitman won his heart with his gesture just ahead of the big-ticket finale. "After this, I thought, such a big thing like a World Cup final. Before the final, you have changed your decision. You spent 10 minutes with the player that is not playing just before the toss. He gave me 10 minutes before the toss. After that, I got to know this person has some other qualities." "If I were in their place, I would be thinking about the players who are playing or my batting. I will explain to Sanju later; that is what normally you think. At that point, he thought 'I have to explain to Sanju, why I took that decision.' At that point, he won a place in my heart that will stay for a lifetime," Samson added. Also read: Los Angeles Olympics 2028 to host cricket matches in New York: Report Instead of Samson, Indian team management trusted Rishabh Pant to do the job behind the stumps despite his ordinary returns with the bat throughout the mega event. Moreover, even Shivam Dube didn't have a fruitful run, hence, many contemplated Samson would get a look-in before the summit clash. However, India didn't tweak their winning combination and it resulted in both Pant and Dube playing key roles in India's win. While Pant smartly halted the game for sometime before the end overs, when the momentum was firmly with South Africa, whereas Dube smashed a vital 16-ball 27 as India posted 178-7 (mainly riding on Virat Kohli's 76 and Axar Patel's 47) after opting to bat first at the Kensington Oval. In reply, SA were in prime position and only needed 30 off the last five overs before Jasprit Bumrah (2 for 18), Arshdeep Singh (2 for 20) and Hardik Pandya (3 for 20)'s death-overs bowling masterclass took India to a famous seven-run win. Post the historic win, Rohit and Kohli retired from T20Is.

You spent 10 minutes with a player who is not playing: Samson recalls Rohit's gesture after T20 WC final snub

India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson is eying Test cap for India after his record-breaking 40-ball ton in the third T20I against Bangladesh. Samson has been on the fringes of Indian team but has never been able to fully live up to his talent.

The ton against Bangladesh coupled with a message from the management, however, seems to have filled him with confidence.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-aus-anil-kumble-feels-shubman-gill-should-not-open-in-rohit-sharmas-absence-names-his-pick-767975">Ind vs Aus: Anil Kumble feels Shubman Gill should not open in Rohit Sharma's absence, names his pick</a>

“I believe I have the skill set to succeed in red-ball cricket and I just don’t want to restrict myself to white-ball cricket. My desire is to play Test cricket for India. Before the Duleep Trophy, the leadership group had told me they were considering me for red-ball cricket and asked to take it seriously and play more Ranji Trophy matches,” Samson told reporters on Tuesday (Oct 15).

Most recently, Samson also featured in the Duleep Trophy for India D and even scored a hundred.

“My preparation was good this time around. After the series against Sri Lanka, I trained at the RR (Rajasthan Royals) Academy with Rahul Dravid sir and Zubin Bharucha and worked on my game. The century in the Duleep Trophy has given me a lot of confidence as it came against some of the best bowlers in the country,” he added.

Samson has played 64 first-class matches and has scored 3,819 runs at an average of 39. He has also hit 11 hundreds and 21 fifties with a highest score of 211.

He is currently in the Kerala squad for their next Ranji Trophy fixture against Karnataka which starts Friday (Oct 18) in Bengaluru.

Samson, however, isn't part of India's squad in the ongoing three-Test home series against New Zealand and is unlikely to travel to Australia for the Border-Gavaskar series next month.

India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson is eying Test cap for India after his record-breaking 40-ball ton in the third T20I against Bangladesh. Samson has been on the fringes of Indian team but has never been able to fully live up to his talent.

India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson is eying Test cap for India after his record-breaking 40-ball ton in the third T20I against Bangladesh. Samson has been on the fringes of Indian team but has never been able to fully live up to his talent. The ton against Bangladesh coupled with a message from the management, however, seems to have filled him with confidence. Also Read: Ind vs Aus: Anil Kumble feels Shubman Gill should not open in Rohit Sharma's absence, names his pick “I believe I have the skill set to succeed in red-ball cricket and I just don’t want to restrict myself to white-ball cricket. My desire is to play Test cricket for India. Before the Duleep Trophy, the leadership group had told me they were considering me for red-ball cricket and asked to take it seriously and play more Ranji Trophy matches,” Samson told reporters on Tuesday (Oct 15). Most recently, Samson also featured in the Duleep Trophy for India D and even scored a hundred. “My preparation was good this time around. After the series against Sri Lanka, I trained at the RR (Rajasthan Royals) Academy with Rahul Dravid sir and Zubin Bharucha and worked on my game. The century in the Duleep Trophy has given me a lot of confidence as it came against some of the best bowlers in the country,” he added. Samson has played 64 first-class matches and has scored 3,819 runs at an average of 39. He has also hit 11 hundreds and 21 fifties with a highest score of 211. He is currently in the Kerala squad for their next Ranji Trophy fixture against Karnataka which starts Friday (Oct 18) in Bengaluru. Samson, however, isn't part of India's squad in the ongoing three-Test home series against New Zealand and is unlikely to travel to Australia for the Border-Gavaskar series next month.

Sanju Samson eyes India Test cap after 'encouraging message from leadership'

India batter Sanju Samson revealed that skipper Suryakumar Yadav told him to go easy and score the hundred instead of hitting a boundary during the third T20I against Bangladesh on Saturday (Oct 12). Samson, however, hit a four to reach his ton off 40 balls - the second fastest for India in T20Is.

“When I was 96 I told Surya that I'll smash but Surya told me to go easy because you earned it. But I'm very happy with the kind of clarity I've received from captain Surya and Gautam bhai. They said play aggressively and be humble and that suits me well,” he said after the match.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/dont-have-any-status-aakash-chopra-on-hardik-pandyas-batting-against-bangladesh-bowlers-767078">'Don’t have any status...,' Aakash Chopra on Hardik Pandya's batting against Bangladesh bowlers</a>

Samson eventually got out after scoring 111 off 47 balls as India managed 297/6&nbsp;in 20 overs - the highest T20I score by a Test playing nation and second highest overall in T20Is behind Nepal's 314 against Mongolia in Asian Games last year.

In reply, Bangladesh could manage just 164/7 and lost the match by 133 runs as India completed a 3-0 whitewash.

Skipper Surya also lauded Samson's selflessness and asserted that he wants those kind of players in the team.

"No one is bigger than the team'. If you're at 99 or 49 or anything, if you feel you've to hit the ball out of the park for the team, you have to hit it, and Sanju did the same thing. Really happy for him,” Surya said.

India had a lot of bright spots for them in series, including pacer Mayank Yadav, who made his debut for India, and Hardik Pandya with all-round performance.

Pandya was named Player-of-the-Series for his 118 runs and a wicket across three matches. He scored those runs at an average of 59 and a strike rate of 222.64.&nbsp;

India batter Sanju Samson revealed that skipper Suryakumar Yadav told him to go easy and score the hundred instead of hitting a boundary during the third T20I against Bangladesh on Saturday (Oct 12).

India batter Sanju Samson revealed that skipper Suryakumar Yadav told him to go easy and score the hundred instead of hitting a boundary during the third T20I against Bangladesh on Saturday (Oct 12). Samson, however, hit a four to reach his ton off 40 balls - the second fastest for India in T20Is. “When I was 96 I told Surya that I'll smash but Surya told me to go easy because you earned it. But I'm very happy with the kind of clarity I've received from captain Surya and Gautam bhai. They said play aggressively and be humble and that suits me well,” he said after the match. Also Read: 'Don’t have any status...,' Aakash Chopra on Hardik Pandya's batting against Bangladesh bowlers Samson eventually got out after scoring 111 off 47 balls as India managed 297/6 in 20 overs - the highest T20I score by a Test playing nation and second highest overall in T20Is behind Nepal's 314 against Mongolia in Asian Games last year. In reply, Bangladesh could manage just 164/7 and lost the match by 133 runs as India completed a 3-0 whitewash. Skipper Surya also lauded Samson's selflessness and asserted that he wants those kind of players in the team. "No one is bigger than the team'. If you're at 99 or 49 or anything, if you feel you've to hit the ball out of the park for the team, you have to hit it, and Sanju did the same thing. Really happy for him,” Surya said. India had a lot of bright spots for them in series, including pacer Mayank Yadav, who made his debut for India, and Hardik Pandya with all-round performance. Pandya was named Player-of-the-Series for his 118 runs and a wicket across three matches. He scored those runs at an average of 59 and a strike rate of 222.64.

'Be humble,' Sanju Samson reveals advice by skipper Suryakumar and coach Gambhir after ton vs Bangladesh

Suryakumar Yadav lauded Sanju Samson for his outstanding hundred in the 3rd T20I against Bangladesh in Hyderabad on Saturday (Oct 12), more so for playing a selfless knock and&nbsp;helping India amass the second-highest T20I total ever (297/6). While SKY slammed a stunning 75 off just 35 balls, Sanju hit his maiden T20I ton, hitting 111 in 47 deliveries, including 11 fours and eight sixes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-v-eng-2024-babar-azam-set-to-be-dropped-for-second-test-in-multan-767023">PAK v ENG 2024: Babar Azam set to be dropped for second Test in Multan</a>

After failing to perform in the first two games, Sanju came good in the last match of the series. From 62 runs off 29 balls, Sanju raced to 92 off 35 deliveries after hitting five sixes in one over of Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain. Then on 96, he smashed offie Mahedi Hasan over his head to complete a 40-ball hundred – the second-fastest for an Indian in T20Is.

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Hyderabad jumps in joy to celebrate the centurion! 🥳 
 
📽️ WATCH the 💯 moment 
 
Live - <a href="https://t.co/ldfcwtHGSC">https://t.co/ldfcwtHGSC</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvBAN</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/OM5jB2oBMu">pic.twitter.com/OM5jB2oBMu</a>
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Reflecting on how Sanju paced his innings and even at a time when he could have carefully got to his century, he smashed one for a boundary, doing it fearlessly and selflessly, Suryakumar said the same approach is what he wants from his team, something the head coach Gautam Gambhir also echoed in the dressing room earlier.

"I think we have achieved a lot as a team," Suryakumar said during the post-match presser.&nbsp;

"Most importantly, as I said at the start of the series, I want to have selfless cricketers in my team. We want to be a selfless team, and as Hardik [Pandya] said, we want to just enjoy each others' performance on the field and off the field and spend as much time as possible, and that camaraderie is carrying on the field, and we're having some fun."

"The chat around the team has been like that. Gauti bhai said the same thing at the start of the series and when we went to Sri Lanka as well: 'No one is bigger than the team'. If you're at 99 or 49 or anything, if you feel you've to hit the ball out of the park for the team, you have to hit it, and Sanju did the same thing. Really happy for him,” he continued.

<h2>‘Flexibility benefitting us’&nbsp;</h2>

Suryakumar also stressed on players being flexible with their roles in the T20I team. With most of the top players rested for Bangladesh T20Is, the Indian Team had several debutants and emerging players in the XI in the three contested matches, with SKY dictating terms on what is needed out of whom.

"We've to be very flexible when it comes to batting and bowling as well," Suryakumar said.&nbsp;

"Everyone has to chip in with few overs who can, and batters have to be very flexible. The way they showed it in the series was very commendable."

"Just [have to] maintain the good habits and continue that on the field and just be the same,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, Team India will host New Zealand for three Tests at home, with the first match beginning on Wednesday (Oct 16) in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Suryakumar Yadav lauded Sanju Samson for his outstanding hundred in the 3rd T20I against Bangladesh in Hyderabad on Saturday (Oct 12), more so for playing a selfless knock and helping India amass the second-highest T20I total ever (297/6).

Suryakumar Yadav lauded Sanju Samson for his outstanding hundred in the 3rd T20I against Bangladesh in Hyderabad on Saturday (Oct 12), more so for playing a selfless knock and helping India amass the second-highest T20I total ever (297/6). While SKY slammed a stunning 75 off just 35 balls, Sanju hit his maiden T20I ton, hitting 111 in 47 deliveries, including 11 fours and eight sixes. ALSO READ: PAK v ENG 2024: Babar Azam set to be dropped for second Test in Multan After failing to perform in the first two games, Sanju came good in the last match of the series. From 62 runs off 29 balls, Sanju raced to 92 off 35 deliveries after hitting five sixes in one over of Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain. Then on 96, he smashed offie Mahedi Hasan over his head to complete a 40-ball hundred – the second-fastest for an Indian in T20Is. Hyderabad jumps in joy to celebrate the centurion! 🥳 📽️ WATCH the 💯 moment Live - https://t.co/ldfcwtHGSC#TeamIndia | #INDvBAN | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/OM5jB2oBMu — BCCI (@BCCI) October 12, 2024 × Reflecting on how Sanju paced his innings and even at a time when he could have carefully got to his century, he smashed one for a boundary, doing it fearlessly and selflessly, Suryakumar said the same approach is what he wants from his team, something the head coach Gautam Gambhir also echoed in the dressing room earlier. "I think we have achieved a lot as a team," Suryakumar said during the post-match presser. "Most importantly, as I said at the start of the series, I want to have selfless cricketers in my team. We want to be a selfless team, and as Hardik [Pandya] said, we want to just enjoy each others' performance on the field and off the field and spend as much time as possible, and that camaraderie is carrying on the field, and we're having some fun." "The chat around the team has been like that. Gauti bhai said the same thing at the start of the series and when we went to Sri Lanka as well: 'No one is bigger than the team'. If you're at 99 or 49 or anything, if you feel you've to hit the ball out of the park for the team, you have to hit it, and Sanju did the same thing. Really happy for him,” he continued. ‘Flexibility benefitting us’ Suryakumar also stressed on players being flexible with their roles in the T20I team. With most of the top players rested for Bangladesh T20Is, the Indian Team had several debutants and emerging players in the XI in the three contested matches, with SKY dictating terms on what is needed out of whom. "We've to be very flexible when it comes to batting and bowling as well," Suryakumar said. "Everyone has to chip in with few overs who can, and batters have to be very flexible. The way they showed it in the series was very commendable." "Just [have to] maintain the good habits and continue that on the field and just be the same,” he concluded. Meanwhile, Team India will host New Zealand for three Tests at home, with the first match beginning on Wednesday (Oct 16) in Bengaluru. (With inputs from agencies)

Captain Suryakumar Yadav lauds ‘selfless’ Sanju Samson after record win over BAN in 3rd T20I

India wiped the floor with Bangladesh in three three-match T20I series against Bangladesh after they dismantled the visitors in the final T20I in Hyderabad on Saturday (Oct 12). Batting records were broken left, right and centre as Sanju Samson slammed a 40-ball hundred to set up a mammoth 298-run target for Bangladesh. In reply, Bangladesh were restricted to 164&nbsp;in their 20 overs as India won by 133&nbsp;runs and pocketed the series 3-0.

<h2>India whitewash Bangladesh</h2>

Having set up a record-breaking total of 297/6 in 20 overs, Bangladesh were never in the contest as they could only manage 164/7 in their 20 overs. Towhid Hridoy’s unbeaten 63 and Litton Das’ 42 were the only batting highlights for Bangladesh before they lost to India on a night highlighted by Samson’s impressive ton. Ravi Bishnoi scalped three wickets on the night and also reached the 50-wicket mark for India in the T20Is.

<h2>Samson wreaks havoc</h2>

Having failed to impress in the first two matches of the series, Samson did not sit back in silencing his critics as he started to attack the opposition bowlers from the start. However, it was the 10th over of the Indian batting innings that made the headlines as Samson slammed bowler Rishad Hossain for five consecutive sixes, refreshing the memories of Yuvraj Singh’s famous six sixes in an innings against England in the 2007 T20 World Cup.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-and-rohit-are-not-in-their-prime-former-opener-makes-massive-claim-on-legendary-indian-pair-766883">'Virat and Rohit are not in their prime': Former opener makes massive claim on legendary Indian pair</a>

His exploits with bat were partnered by Suryakumar Yadav (75) as they both stitched a partnership of 173 runs for the second wicket for India. Samson could later complete his maiden T20I hundred, the second-fastest international hundred by an Indian to raise the roof.

Later in the innings, Riyan Parag (34 off 13), Hardik Pandya (47 off 18) and Rinku Singh (8 off 4) made some important contributions to take India to a grand total of 297/6 in 20 overs. The record-breaking innings saw three Bangladesh bowlers dispatched for more than 50 runs as India ran riot with the bat. With 297 on board, it is also the highest score by a Test-playing nation in a T20I game.

India wiped the floor with Bangladesh in three three-match T20I series against Bangladesh after they dismantled the visitors in the final T20I in Hyderabad on Saturday (Oct 12).

India wiped the floor with Bangladesh in three three-match T20I series against Bangladesh after they dismantled the visitors in the final T20I in Hyderabad on Saturday (Oct 12). Batting records were broken left, right and centre as Sanju Samson slammed a 40-ball hundred to set up a mammoth 298-run target for Bangladesh. In reply, Bangladesh were restricted to 164 in their 20 overs as India won by 133 runs and pocketed the series 3-0. India whitewash Bangladesh Having set up a record-breaking total of 297/6 in 20 overs, Bangladesh were never in the contest as they could only manage 164/7 in their 20 overs. Towhid Hridoy’s unbeaten 63 and Litton Das’ 42 were the only batting highlights for Bangladesh before they lost to India on a night highlighted by Samson’s impressive ton. Ravi Bishnoi scalped three wickets on the night and also reached the 50-wicket mark for India in the T20Is. Samson wreaks havoc Having failed to impress in the first two matches of the series, Samson did not sit back in silencing his critics as he started to attack the opposition bowlers from the start. However, it was the 10th over of the Indian batting innings that made the headlines as Samson slammed bowler Rishad Hossain for five consecutive sixes, refreshing the memories of Yuvraj Singh’s famous six sixes in an innings against England in the 2007 T20 World Cup. ALSO READ | 'Virat and Rohit are not in their prime': Former opener makes massive claim on legendary Indian pair His exploits with bat were partnered by Suryakumar Yadav (75) as they both stitched a partnership of 173 runs for the second wicket for India. Samson could later complete his maiden T20I hundred, the second-fastest international hundred by an Indian to raise the roof. Later in the innings, Riyan Parag (34 off 13), Hardik Pandya (47 off 18) and Rinku Singh (8 off 4) made some important contributions to take India to a grand total of 297/6 in 20 overs. The record-breaking innings saw three Bangladesh bowlers dispatched for more than 50 runs as India ran riot with the bat. With 297 on board, it is also the highest score by a Test-playing nation in a T20I game.

IND vs BAN: India whitewash Bangladesh after rewriting record books in Hyderabad; Sanju Samson stars with ton

India’s star batter wreaked&nbsp;with the bat against Bangladesh on Saturday (Oct 12) after he smashed five consecutive sixes against the visitors in a single over. Playing in the final T20I against Bangladesh as an opener, Samson was scoring runs left, right and centre as Indian batters smashed multiple records in the evening. At the time of writing, he scored his maiden T20I hundred in a record-breaking 40 balls.&nbsp;

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CONSECUTIVE SIXES BY SANJU SAMSON IN AN OVER, MADNESS AT UPPAL...!!! 🤯🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SanjuSamson?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SanjuSamson</a> 
 
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<h2>Samson wreaks havoc</h2>

Having failed to impress in the first two matches of the series, Samson did not sit back in silencing his critics as he started to attack the opposition bowlers from the start. However, it was the 10th over of the Indian batting innings that made the headlines as Samson slammed bowler Rishad Hossain for five consecutive sixes, refreshing the memories of Yuvraj Singh’s famous six sixes in an innings against England in the 2007 T20 World Cup.

His exploits with bat were partnered by Suryakumar Yadav (75) as they both stitched a partnership of 173 runs for the second wicket for India. Samson could later complete his maiden T20I hundred, second second-fastest international hundred by an Indian to raise the roof.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-and-rohit-are-not-in-their-prime-former-opener-makes-massive-claim-on-legendary-indian-pair-766883">'Virat and Rohit are not in their prime': Former opener makes massive claim on legendary Indian pair</a>

In doing so India broke a series of records against Bangladesh, with 152 on board after 10 overs, this was India’s highest T20I total at that stage. On the other hand, with 82/1 in powerplay, it was also India’s highest score in that slot.

Later in the innings, Riyan Parag (34 off 13), Hardik Pandya (47 off 18) and Rinku Singh (8 off 4) made some important contributions to take India to a grand total of 297/6 in 20 overs. The record-break innings saw three Bangladesh bowlers dispatched for more than 50 runs as India ran riot with the bat. With 297 on board, it is also the highest score by a Test-playing nation in a T20I game.

India’s star batter wreaked with the bat against Bangladesh on Saturday (Oct 12) after he smashed five consecutive sixes against the visitors in a single over. Playing in the final T20I against Bangladesh as an opener, Samson was scoring runs left, right and centre as Indian batters smashed multiple records in the evening.

India’s star batter wreaked with the bat against Bangladesh on Saturday (Oct 12) after he smashed five consecutive sixes against the visitors in a single over. Playing in the final T20I against Bangladesh as an opener, Samson was scoring runs left, right and centre as Indian batters smashed multiple records in the evening. At the time of writing, he scored his maiden T20I hundred in a record-breaking 40 balls. CONSECUTIVE SIXES BY SANJU SAMSON IN AN OVER, MADNESS AT UPPAL...!!! 🤯🇮🇳 #SanjuSamson pic.twitter.com/42Mtz2s6SM — A D V A I T H (@SankiPagalAwara) October 12, 2024 × Samson wreaks havoc Having failed to impress in the first two matches of the series, Samson did not sit back in silencing his critics as he started to attack the opposition bowlers from the start. However, it was the 10th over of the Indian batting innings that made the headlines as Samson slammed bowler Rishad Hossain for five consecutive sixes, refreshing the memories of Yuvraj Singh’s famous six sixes in an innings against England in the 2007 T20 World Cup. His exploits with bat were partnered by Suryakumar Yadav (75) as they both stitched a partnership of 173 runs for the second wicket for India. Samson could later complete his maiden T20I hundred, second second-fastest international hundred by an Indian to raise the roof. ALSO READ | 'Virat and Rohit are not in their prime': Former opener makes massive claim on legendary Indian pair In doing so India broke a series of records against Bangladesh, with 152 on board after 10 overs, this was India’s highest T20I total at that stage. On the other hand, with 82/1 in powerplay, it was also India’s highest score in that slot. Later in the innings, Riyan Parag (34 off 13), Hardik Pandya (47 off 18) and Rinku Singh (8 off 4) made some important contributions to take India to a grand total of 297/6 in 20 overs. The record-break innings saw three Bangladesh bowlers dispatched for more than 50 runs as India ran riot with the bat. With 297 on board, it is also the highest score by a Test-playing nation in a T20I game.

WATCH: Sanju Samson wreaks havoc in Hyderabad with 0,6,6,6,6,6 in single over against Bangladesh

Former India opener Akash Chopra has said that wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson will be dropped from the side if he doesn't score more runs. The statement comes after Samson scored a 19-ball 29 in the first T20I against Bangladesh on Sunday (Oct 6).

"He is good. He scored 29 runs. My only thing was that since he had reached here, he should go slightly further ahead. He should score a few more runs because, otherwise, they would drop him. He keeps moving in and out (of the side), and up and down (the batting order)," said Chopra on his YouTube channel.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/only-if-we-apply-our-brains-yuvraj-slams-his-disciple-abhishek-sharma-after-flop-show-in-gwalior-t20i-765584">Only if we apply our brains: Yuvraj SLAMS his disciple Abhishek Sharma after flop show in Gwalior T20I</a>

Chopra, however, praised Samson for being fluent with the bat in the first match of the three-T20I series and pointed out that he was looking for timing rather than hitting the ball hard.

"You need to talk about Sanju Samson. Abhishek Sharma was playing amazingly well until he was there but he got run out. But how well did Sanju play. Gautam Gambhir said long back that if Sanju Samson doesn't play for India, it's India's loss. He was made to open. The silken touch was seen. He wasn't hitting the ball hard. It seemed like he didn't want to hurt the ball, and he was hitting one four after another. When everyone was hitting, he also hit but by caressing the ball. You were getting hit, you were bleeding but you were not feeling the pain," the former India cricketer added.

Samson has been in and out of the side for long now and has been able to play only 31 T20Is since making his debut in the shortest format back in 2015.

In the matches he has played, Samson has been able to score only 473 runs at an average of 19.70 and a strike rate of 132 with just two fifties to his name.

Former India opener Akash Chopra has said that wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson will be dropped from the side if he doesn't score more runs. The statement comes after Samson scored a 19-ball 29 in the first T20I against Bangladesh on Sunday (Oct 6).

Former India opener Akash Chopra has said that wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson will be dropped from the side if he doesn't score more runs. The statement comes after Samson scored a 19-ball 29 in the first T20I against Bangladesh on Sunday (Oct 6). "He is good. He scored 29 runs. My only thing was that since he had reached here, he should go slightly further ahead. He should score a few more runs because, otherwise, they would drop him. He keeps moving in and out (of the side), and up and down (the batting order)," said Chopra on his YouTube channel. Also Read: Only if we apply our brains: Yuvraj SLAMS his disciple Abhishek Sharma after flop show in Gwalior T20I Chopra, however, praised Samson for being fluent with the bat in the first match of the three-T20I series and pointed out that he was looking for timing rather than hitting the ball hard. "You need to talk about Sanju Samson. Abhishek Sharma was playing amazingly well until he was there but he got run out. But how well did Sanju play. Gautam Gambhir said long back that if Sanju Samson doesn't play for India, it's India's loss. He was made to open. The silken touch was seen. He wasn't hitting the ball hard. It seemed like he didn't want to hurt the ball, and he was hitting one four after another. When everyone was hitting, he also hit but by caressing the ball. You were getting hit, you were bleeding but you were not feeling the pain," the former India cricketer added. Samson has been in and out of the side for long now and has been able to play only 31 T20Is since making his debut in the shortest format back in 2015. In the matches he has played, Samson has been able to score only 473 runs at an average of 19.70 and a strike rate of 132 with just two fifties to his name.

'Would drop him...,' former India batter Akash Chopra's warning Sanju Samson after Gwalior T20I vs Bangladesh

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