Sanju Samson Creates History with Third T20I Century in a Calendar Year

Indian wicket-keeper batter Sanju Samson etched his name in cricketing history by becoming the first player ever to score three T20I centuries in a calendar year. His scintillating knock of 109* off 56 balls, featuring 6 fours and 9 sixes, powered India to an imposing 283/1 against South Africa in the fourth T20I on Friday, the highest T20I total on South African soil and India’s best overseas.

A Masterclass in Batting Brilliance

Samson’s latest century came in a series where he started with a dazzling ton but endured two ducks in the following games. Despite those setbacks, Samson returned in style, dismantling the South African bowlers with poise and power. Sharing the spotlight, Tilak Varma delivered a breathtaking 120* off just 47 balls, forming a record-breaking 210-run partnership for the second wicket with Samson.

This partnership is now India’s highest in T20I history and one of the finest displays of attacking cricket. The duo showcased contrasting styles — Samson with his surgical precision and Varma with his sheer muscle — as they toyed with South African bowlers on a pitch with true bounce.

Records Tumble Under Indian Onslaught

Samson’s third T20I ton this year adds another feather to his cap, while Varma’s back-to-back centuries on South African soil highlight his rise as a formidable number three. Together, they scripted history, becoming the first Indian pair to score centuries in the same T20I innings.

India’s 23 sixes in the match, including 9 from Samson and 10 from Varma, set another record, as the South African bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught. Pacers Andile Simelane and Lutho Sipamla bore the brunt, conceding 10 sixes between them.

Abhishek Sharma and a Powerplay Explosion

Before Samson and Varma took over, Abhishek Sharma played a crucial role with his explosive 36 off 18 balls, including four towering sixes. His contribution ensured a strong start in the Powerplay, setting the stage for the massive total.

A Landmark Year for Indian Cricket

India’s record-breaking total and the brilliance of Samson and Varma capped off a stellar T20I season for the Men in Blue. With three centuries in just five innings, Samson has proven his mettle, leaving selectors with a welcome dilemma as the squad looks to accommodate returning stars.

As India’s T20I campaign concludes, the exploits of Samson and Varma serve as a testament to the team’s extraordinary depth and talent in the shortest format.