SA vs IND: Sanjay Manjrekar Highlights Why Sanju Samson's Maiden Century Is A Special Inning

Fans were treated to a riveting spectacle as South Africa and India clashed in the third and final ODI at the iconic Boland Park in Paarl. The series, hanging in the balance at 1-1, witnessed a gripping narrative unfold, with India seizing the first encounter and South Africa mounting a powerful resurgence in the second.

A pivotal point of focus in this series has been the resurgence of India’s Sanju Samson. Over the last two years, Samson found himself on the fringes of the ODI squad, with no opportunity even in the prestigious ODI World Cup of 2023. This led to widespread criticism from fans who questioned the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for not affording ample chances to the talented batsman.

Amidst the scrutiny and skepticism, Sanju Samson stepped onto the field in the third ODI with a point to prove. Batting at number 3 on a challenging wicket, he delivered a masterclass performance, notching up a brilliant century. Samson’s innings of 108 runs off 114 balls, adorned with 6 fours and 3 sixes, showcased his resilience and adaptability.

Former Indian cricketer and renowned commentator, Sanjay Manjrekar, took to X to express his admiration for Samson’s innings. In his own words, Manjrekar highlighted the significance of Samson’s century, emphasising that the batsman not only met but exceeded expectations.

Sanjay Manjrekar’s praise for Samson was both insightful and commendatory. In essence, he underscored the fact that Samson’s century, achieved in the 44th over, demonstrated not only his cricketing class but also his ability to adapt to the team’s needs. Manjrekar’s words resonated with a deeper appreciation for Samson’s innings, acknowledging the challenging circumstances in which he crafted his century.

Manjrekar’s comparison scenario, where he mentioned a hypothetical scenario of Samson scoring a blazing century in 80 balls, was a rhetorical device. It aimed to highlight the contrasting narrative that Samson’s century, achieved under challenging conditions and in a patient manner, reflected a higher level of skill and adaptability. The applause embedded in Manjrekar’s use of emojis underscored the commentator’s admiration for Samson’s performance.

SA vs IND: Sanjay Manjrekar Highlights Why Sanju Samson’s Maiden Century Is A Special Inning

Sanju Samson’s remarkable century becomes even more noteworthy when considered in the broader context of the match dynamics. Coming in to bat in the 5th over, Samson not only stabilized the Indian innings but also built a foundation for a formidable total. His ability to anchor the innings, despite the early pressure, speaks volumes about his temperament and resilience.

Manjrekar’s acknowledgement of Samson playing “to the team needs, seemingly against his nature” sheds light on the strategic brilliance of the innings. Samson, known for his aggressive style, adjusted his approach to align with the team’s requirements. This adaptability showcased a cricketing intelligence that goes beyond mere run-scoring.

Sanjay Manjrekar wrote: “Had Sanju Samson got a blazing 100 in 80 balls, you would have said well done Sanju! But that he came into bat in the 5th over & got his 100 in the 44th over & played to the team needs, seemingly against his nature, my admiration for Samson has grown considerably today!”