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Sanju Samson's recent performances in the T20I series against South Africa have reignited discussions about his potential as a key player for India. Having scored two consecutive centuries in vastly different conditions, Samson appears to have finally cracked the code for success at the international level. The 29-year-old Kerala batsman, known for his explosive batting style and occasional inconsistency, has displayed a newfound maturity and consistency that has silenced his critics.
Samson's rise to prominence in this series is a testament to his ability to adapt to various conditions and his unwavering dedication to his craft. His century in the first T20I at Kingsmead, a venue known for its pace and bounce, showcased his prowess against both pace and spin. His ability to target both the straight boundary and the short one on the sides with equal effectiveness underscored his complete command over his batting technique. He hit 10 sixes and seven fours, propelling India to a formidable total of 202 for 8.
However, Samson's journey hasn't been without its challenges. He acknowledges that the pressures of international cricket and the relentless scrutiny of social media have, at times, cast a shadow over his confidence. He has candidly admitted to facing doubts about his ability at the international level, questioning his own capabilities and wondering why he couldn't translate his IPL success to the international arena. It was during these times of adversity that the support and guidance of the team management played a pivotal role in keeping him grounded and motivated.
Samson attributes his resurgence to the unwavering belief shown in him by the team management, particularly captain Suryakumar Yadav, mentor Gautam Gambhir, and coach VVS Laxman. He credits their constant support and encouragement during his struggles for helping him regain his confidence and focus on improvement. Their guidance extended beyond mere words, with Gambhir and Surya actively advising him on his training regimen, urging him to seek out challenging practice sessions in Kerala to strengthen his game against spin.
The faith placed in him by the team management has instilled a renewed sense of purpose in Samson. He is determined to repay their trust by delivering consistent performances for India. His recent successes have come at a crucial juncture for the Indian team, with veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli stepping away from the T20 format and several multi-format players not always available. Samson has seamlessly stepped up to fill the void, becoming a vital cog in the team's aggressive approach to the T20 format.
India's current strategy emphasizes an ultra-aggressive approach, regardless of conditions or opposition. Samson is a key exponent of this philosophy, embodying the team's unwavering belief in their ability to dominate in the T20 format. This aggressive approach, coupled with Samson's recent resurgence, augurs well for India's chances in the upcoming World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka in 2026. As defending champions, India will be looking to Samson and his teammates to continue their dominance and secure another World Cup title.