• Source:ANI
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In a spectacular display of batting prowess, Indian batter Sanju Samson stole the limelight by smashing a sensational century in the third One Day International (ODI) against South Africa in Paarl. Expressing his delight over achieving his maiden ODI century, Samson revealed that the moment felt emotional, acknowledging the fruition of his hard work.

Samson's remarkable innings played a pivotal role in India posting a competitive total of 296/8 in the third ODI at Paarl on Thursday. His century was complemented by a well-crafted half-century from Tilak Varma, further bolstering India's innings.

The wicketkeeper-batter's journey to his maiden ODI century reflects the dedication and perseverance that goes into honing one's skills at the international level.

"I feel really emotional, going through the emotions now. I am very happy to achieve this. I have been putting in a lot of work, both physically and mentally, and I am happy to see the results go my way now. They bowled really well with the new ball, and the older ball was getting slower and more difficult to bat. So after KL got out, they had momentum, and Maharaj was bowling very well. But me and Tilak stuck it out and went strong at the end. We were playing an extra all-rounder today, so me and Tilak had decided that we had to go hard from the 40th over onwards," said Samson following the innings.

Coming to the match, India was put on the field first by the Proteas. Rajat Patidar (22 in 16 balls, with three fours and a six) had a hard-hitting international debut, while Sai Sudharsan (10) was disappointing following two back-to-back fifties. Skipper KL Rahul (21) also could not build on a solid start, leaving India at 101/3.

Then Samson had a 116-run partnership for the fourth wicket with Tilak Varma (52 in 75 balls, with six fours and a six). Samson scored his maiden ton, 108 runs in 114 balls, with six fours and three sixes. He played a cautious and measured knock instead of his usual attacking approach. Finishing touches from Rinku Singh (38 in 27 balls, three fours and two sixes) took India to 296/8.

Beuran Hendricks (3/63) and Nandre Burger (2/64) were the top bowlers for South Africa. Lizaad Williams, Wiaan Mulder and Keshav Maharaj got a wicket each.

The series is tied at 1-1 and India needs to defend 297 to win it.

 

Inputs from ANI