Sanju Samson doesn't have much time left in international cricket claims India veteran

Former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan has lauded wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson following his century during the first T20I match against South Africa. Zaheer Khan said that Sanju Samson has taken his game to the next level, adding that he got success as an opener for Team India in the T20I format.

Samson delivered a stellar performance in the first T20I against South Africa in Kingsmead, Durban on Friday, November 8. Sanju provided an explosive start and went on to score his second consecutive T20I century. He scored 107 runs off 50 balls as India posted a good total of 202 runs in 20 overs.

Sanju Samson Has Been Around For A While - Zaheer Khan

Speaking to Cricbuzz, Zaheer Khan highlighted that Samson has been part of the Indian team for a while and has batted in various positions. Zaheer said that Sanju found success when he was allowed to open the batting.

"It was Sanju Samson's show all around. He has definitely taken it to the next level. You look at Sanju Samson's career, and that will tell you a story. He has been around for a while," Zaheer told Cricbuzz.

"It's not that we're talking about someone who's just come into the side now and looking to cement his place. He has batted at different positions for the Indian team. Eventually, when he opened, he got that success recently," he added.

'#SanjuSamson cashing in on his limited opportunities' @DineshKarthik & @ImZaheer laud the batter, on #CricbuzzLive#SAvIND pic.twitter.com/qMxdncaBz0

— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) November 8, 2024

He's Going To Approach It With Hunger And Passion - Zaheer Khan

Zaheer Khan said that Samson showcased his hunger and desire amidst the intense competition within the Indian team. He said that it's important to seize such opportunities during a purple patch. Zaheer also noted that Samson would be satisfied with his performance as it was long overdue.

"The hundred you're talking about, and he hasn’t stopped there. It shows the hunger, the desire, and also the competition within the Indian team. So, when you get that opportunity and hit a purple patch, you’ve got to make sure you don't let it go," Khan further stated.

"Sanju Samson will be very happy and satisfied because it was long overdue for him to come good at this level. He knows a lot of time has passed in his career, so he's going to approach it with hunger and passion. That’s going to be very beneficial for the Indian team for sure."

Team India Won First T20I of Four-Match Series by 61 Runs

Samson was dismissed in the 16th over by Nqabayomzi Peter. Following his wicket, India’s lower order collapsed. Gerald Coetzee was the standout bowler for South Africa, registering 3/37 in his four-over spell. Marco Jansen, Maharaj, Peter, and Patrick Kruger each secured one wicket in the match.

India’s bowlers took wickets regularly and prevented South Africa from forming big partnerships. The Proteas were all out for 141 in 17.5 overs. Heinrich Klaasen was the top scorer for the hosts with 25 runs. Varun Chakaravarthy and Ravi Bishnoi each secured three wickets as India won the match by 61 runs.

Also read: Sanju Samson breaks silence after becoming the 1st Indian player to score consecutive T20I Hundreds