Sanju Samson's failure in ODIs earlier because of Virat Kohli's presence? KL Rahul gives a reality check

KL Rahul reasons heavy top-order in ODI format for the lack of opportunities to Sanju Samson.

Sanju Samson played his career-changing innings for Team India while batting at number 3 against South Africa at Paarl. Samson played a determined knock scoring 108 runs in the third ODI to help India clinch the three-match ODI series against the hosts Proteas. India won the game by 78 runs and registered their second ODI series victory in South Africa. As the caravan moves to the red-ball format, Sanju Samson is hailed for his magnificent century. 

India skipper KL Rahul has heaped huge praise on the right-hand batter and said that it was unfortunate that he couldn’t get the opportunities as much as he deserved to play for India. Rahul hinted at the heavy top-order India played with before and during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in India. Sanju Samson was adjudged Player of the Match for his 108 runs knock in 114 balls on a tough wicket at Boland Park. 

Rahul’s huge statement on Sanju

India captain KL Rahul said that Sanju has been a phenomenal IPL player. Rahul added, “Sanju has been a phenomenal performer in the IPL, unfortunately, hasn’t got a lot of chances at the top of the order for various reasons but nice to see him do well today.” Sanju Samson added a few crucial stands in the middle overs as well and took India close to above par score. India scored 296 and gave South Africa 297 to chase. 

KL Rahul also added that it was a nice series win for team India to get out of the disappointing loss against Australia in the World Cup final played last month. He said, “Always love being around the boys. Nice to get back on the cricket field after a disappointing World Cup. Have played with a lot of them in the IPL, nice to get out here and play with them. Usually, my message is to always enjoy the game, to give your best, and not worry about the rest.” 

Rajat Patidar made his ODI debut in the final match of the series and he played a cameo scoring 22 runs in 16 balls. Patidar was looking to score aggressively but young South African pacer Nandre Burger castled the Indian right-hander. Tilak Varma (52) and Rinku Singh (38) also made useful contributions to the team’s total. Arshdeep Singh once again shined for India and finished the game with figures of 4/30 in 9 overs. He picked up 10 wickets in the series. 

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