How do you even begin to make sense of it? It was not the stuff of cricketing lore that involves a pitch designed for big scores or a ground with minuscule boundaries tailor-made for power hitters. And it definitely wasn’t because the outfield was dry after an unexpected downpour. Yet, against all these odds, India conjured up a masterclass performance, posting a staggering total of 297/6 in a T20 International match. What makes this feat all the more remarkable? The absence of the Impact Player rule, which adds a tactical edge but can sometimes skew the dynamics in such scenarios.
This astonishing display seemed to subscribe to a singular modus operandi: aim for a six with every delivery encountered. Everything else was left to chaos, that often unpredictable yet exhilarating spectacle only cricket can churn out.
Now consider Sanju Samson. Known more for his elegant play than raw power, Samson has often walked a balance beam between exquisite timing and inexplicable frustration. His allure lies in this dichotomy. Yet, on Saturday, October 12, in the bustling city of Hyderabad, he unshackled himself from previous perceptions. In a whirlwind innings, he notched a hundred in just 40 balls, marking his maiden century in T20Is. And then, in a gesture that encapsulated the evening’s surprise, he flexed his bicep to his teammates in the dugout.
As Samson held his ground, the usual constraints of the game seemed to fade into irrelevance. The unfamiliarity of his batting position could not deter him, neither could Taskin Ahmed’s strategy with slower balls or the abrupt lighting glitch which often bodes ill for batters. Not even Rishad Hossain’s attempts at switching his bowling stance curbed Samson’s relentless assault, showcased by five successive deliveries smashed over the ropes.
Just the day prior, Ryan ten Doeschate, assistant coach of India, had praised Sanju for his selfless approach throughout the series, highlighting his restraint in not opting for easy half-centuries. Here he stood, accepting his Player of the Match award, symbolizing a new era of audacious batting, fearlessly swinging for the fences in the T20 format.
In his own words, Sanju acknowledged this collective commitment of the Indian batting lineup to dominate every outing in the T20 script. He expressed his gratitude for contributing significantly to the team’s cause for the evening.
His journey to this moment had not been smooth. With limited opportunities knocking at scarce intervals, integrating his personal ambitions with those of the team must have been a cumbersome process.
. Moreover, the competition for an opening spot is intense, considering India’s plethora of batting talents. Yet, as the second-fastest to a T20I century for India, Sanju undeniably stoked discussions, especially with an eye on the forthcoming T20 World Cup, set to take place under these very conditions.
A deeper understanding of his game has led him to assert flexible capabilities—from occupying the top order to settling comfortably down to No. 6. He combines power and finesse, tailored to meet the requirements of any role he undertakes for the team. He recognized the inherent challenges faced by Indian cricketers, noting the mental turmoil batting in this high-risk, high-reward format brings about. Mastery, he indicates, comes through experience, the crucible of IPL and international outings, fortifying resilience against pressure and inevitable setbacks. Credit, he duly accorded, goes to the supportive dressing room environment.
Sanju’s affinity for tackling spin head-on stands as his signature strength. The five sixes he walloped over Rishad Hossain’s head were more than just big hits; they were masterful in precision, control, and sublime timing—a bold declaration that flat wickets or not, in today’s T20 landscape, few can match his prowess against spin. And this wasn’t sheer brute force. It was a delightful blend of confidence, technique, and an ironclad belief that anything was within reach for the 29-year-old dynamo.
Sanju’s inkling to decimate a spinner’s over with six potential sixes has long been his vision, a pursuit honed with mentor Raiphi Gomez. Consistent practice and visualization culminated in this evening’s triumph, aligning beautifully with strategized dreams.
This ground, imbued with rich memories of an IPL century in 2019, surely amplified the emotional resonance of his achievement. Batting alongside Suryakumar Yadav, India’s skipper, only fortified this memorable occasion.
Communication between Sanju and the team’s leadership had prepared the ground—a timely message from Suryakumar and others three weeks prior ensured Sampson was prepped rigorously, blending ample practice at the Rajasthan Royals academy to counter new-ball bowlers under real match conditions.
As the evening unfolded amid roars echoing through the stadium and records breaking ceaselessly, the occasion transformed into a vivid celebration—a testament to India’s flourishing batting ideology. There was little need for logical breakdown. This brand of cricket was an indulgence, inviting spectators to revel in the spectacle showcased before them—a vibrant, mesmerizing display of unmatched cricket prowess.