Sanju Samson scored his first T20I century in a brilliant display of batting skill, helping India to an incredible 297 for 6 against Bangladesh. This remarkable performance not only marked India’s highest T20I score but also secured a resounding 3-0 series victory. Bangladesh, in their chase, fell short by 133 runs, with veteran Mahmudullah bidding farewell to T20I cricket on a disappointing note.
If this is the beginning of a comeback then I am not sad for so many years.
-0,6,6,6,6,6
-111 just ok in 47 balls (8 sixes & 11 fours)
-Amazing century from 250+ strike rate
🚀Well done Sanju Samson#SanjuSamson pic.twitter.com/lXvN8QQ42n
— Eagle Eye🦅🇮🇳 (@DeshiProfessor_) October 12, 2024A Fiery Start
Choosing to bat first in front of an enthusiastic Hyderabad crowd, India adopted a cautious approach in the opening over, scoring only seven runs—ironically the most economical of the innings. However, they quickly shifted gears in the second over as Sanju Samson unleashed a barrage of boundaries against Taskin Ahmed, hitting four consecutive fours to signal his intent.
Despite losing Abhishek Sharma early to Tanzim Hasan, Suryakumar Yadav wasted no time, launching into an explosive innings. Samson and Suryakumar both appeared threatening at the crease as India rushed to 82 for 1 by the end of the Power Play.
Sanju Samson’s Blazing Knock
Sanju Samson destroyed Rishad Hossain for 16 runs in one over, displaying his incredible talent by reaching his fifty in just 22 balls. His onslaught didn’t stop there; he followed it up with a spectacular display, smashing five consecutive sixes in another over against Rishad, totaling a massive 30 runs. This onslaught left Bangladesh reeling and marked a pivotal moment in the match.
Reaching his century in just 40 balls, Samson’s knock included 11 fours and eight sixes, illustrating his dominance over the bowlers. His joy was palpable as he fulfilled a long-standing wish of his mentor to hit five sixes in an over. After scoring two more boundaries post-century, he was eventually caught at deep-square leg, but not before having etched his name in the record books.
Suryakumar’s Support and Late Flourishes
Suryakumar Yadav’s contribution was equally impressive, as he scored 75 runs off just 35 balls. The two caused chaos for the Bangladeshi bowlers with an incredible 173-run stand off just 69 balls. Hardik Pandya (47 off 18) and Riyan Parag (34 off 13) added to the chaos, helping India to amass 297 runs. Their aggressive strokes, coupled with Bangladesh’s poor fielding—highlighted by two missed run-out opportunities—ensured that the hosts finished their innings on a high note.
As the innings drew to a close, a comical moment occurred when Parag and Hardik found themselves stranded mid-pitch during a run. In a moment of sheer luck, Litton Das’s throw sailed above the bowler’s head, allowing them to complete the run safely. Even in the final over, Parag managed to add crucial runs, though he eventually fell to Taskin, who picked up two wickets in quick succession.
Bangladesh’s Struggle in Response
Chasing such a mammoth total was always going to be a daunting task for Bangladesh. When Mayank Yadav removed Parvez Hossain Emon with the first ball, the innings got off to a terrible start. Although Najmul Hossain Shanto and Tanzid Hasan managed to score 30 runs in quick succession, the pressure was mounting.
Bangladesh’s attempts to fight back faced setbacks as wickets fell at regular intervals. Litton Das briefly sparked hope with a flurry of boundaries, but his dismissal ended the partnership with Towhid Hridoy, who was the lone warrior for the visitors, scoring a commendable 63 not out.
Bowling Masterclass
India’s bowlers showcased their skill throughout Bangladesh’s innings. Ravi Bishnoi led the charge with figures of 3 for 30, while Mayank Yadav chipped in with 2 for 32. Varun Chakravarthy bowled economically, conceding just 23 runs in his four overs. The required run rate climbed drastically, and despite Hridoy’s efforts, Bangladesh could only muster 164 runs, sealing their fate in this one-sided encounter.
Sanju Samson Reflects on His Performance
In the aftermath of the match, Sanju Samson expressed his delight at achieving the elusive milestone of five sixes in an over, fulfilling a request from his mentor. His post-match comments reflected a mix of gratitude and determination. “The leadership group backs me no matter what. After a tough series with two ducks, I returned home wondering what would happen next. I’m thrilled to have contributed positively to the team’s success,” he remarked.
Samson spoke candidly about the mental challenges he faced in the past, acknowledging the frustrations that come with failing to convert good starts into big scores. His experience has taught him to focus on the process and stay grounded, confident that with perseverance, big performances would eventually come.
India’s commanding 3-0 series victory over Bangladesh showcased their batting depth and bowling prowess. Sanju Samson’s spectacular century, combined with strong performances from Suryakumar Yadav and the bowling unit, illustrated why they are a force to be reckoned with in T20 cricket. As the series concludes, both teams will reflect on their performances, with India celebrating a historic win and Bangladesh looking to regroup for future challenges.
Read More : Masterful Performances: Masood and Shafique Propel Pakistan to Dominance Over England in First Test
