Indian cricketer Sanju Samson, renowned for his explosive batting, recently emphasized the challenges of being a part of the Indian National Cricket Team. Playing at different positions in the batting order requires adaptability and versatility, a skill he demonstrated during his brilliant innings in the ongoing third ODI between India and the West Indies.
Sanju Samson was given the crucial No.4 spot in the batting order and made the most of the opportunity. He exhibited a batting masterclass, smashing three magnificent sixes within the first 13 deliveries he faced. His aggressive approach saw him reach a terrific half-century, but he was dismissed shortly after, scoring 51 runs at a strike rate of 124.39, including 2 fours and 4 sixes.
Speaking after his impressive performance to the host broadcasters, Sanju Samson expressed his satisfaction at spending valuable time in the middle and contributing to the country’s cause. He mentioned having specific plans for different bowlers and using his feet to dominate their lengths.
Sanju said, “It feels great to spend time in the middle, score some runs and contribute to your country. I had different plans for players; I wanted to use my feet and dominate the bowlers’ lengths.”
Sanju Samson acknowledged the challenges faced by Indian cricketers when adjusting to playing at different batting positions. Having played domestic cricket for several years and occasionally representing India, he understands the importance of adapting to varying roles in the team. He stressed that it is more about the number of overs a player gets than the batting position, which necessitates preparation accordingly.
Sanju Samson further spoke, “Being an Indian cricketer is a challenging thing (speaking about adjusting to playing in different batting positions); I have played domestic cricket for the last 8-9 years and for India here and there, so it gives you a bit of understanding of playing in different positions. It is the number of overs you get, and it is not about batting position, so you gotta prepare accordingly.”
Commenting on the pitch used in the third ODI, Sanju Samson pointed out that it was a bit dry compared to the previous surface at Kensington Oval. While the new ball offered good batting conditions, the pitch slowed as it aged, making facing the spinners challenging.
Sanju replied, “That (Kensington Oval) was a bit damp. It was coming on nicely with the new ball, but as the ball got old, it was holding up and became slightly tough against the spinners.”
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Sanju Samson praised the Indian middle-order batters for their resilience in putting up a great total of 351/5 in 50 overs. He recognized their effort in handling the challenging conditions and acknowledged that batting was not easy in the middle. With a formidable bowling attack, Samson expressed confidence in the team’s ability to defend the target.
Samson further said, “It was not easy to get that score; credit goes to the middle-order batters for hanging in and getting that score. With our bowling order, I’m confident. (of defending the target.)”
