Indian cricketer Sanju Samson showed his compassionate side during the fourth and final T20I against South Africa on Friday, November 15. A spectator was struck by a ball when Samson hit a towering six in the match. The incident occurred on the second delivery of the 10th over of India’s innings, as Samson launched a shot over deep mid-wicket off Tristan Stubbs.
The ball deflected off a railing and hit a woman in the face, causing her pain. She was given an ice pack to help alleviate the discomfort. After the match, Samson went the extra mile by interacting with her, checking on her condition, and even taking a photo together.
In terms of his performance on the field, Sanju Samson showcased his exceptional batting skills by scoring his second century of the series. This achievement made him the only player to hit three T20I centuries in a calendar year. Despite scoring 107 in the opening match, he followed it up with two ducks. However, he made a remarkable comeback in the fourth game, scoring an unbeaten 109. With this innings, Samson has accumulated 810 runs in 37 T20Is, including two fifties and three centuries.
In the final T20I match against South Africa, India won the toss and opted to bat first. Openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma provided a solid start, putting on 73 runs off 35 balls for the first wicket. Abhishek scored 36 off 18 balls, including two boundaries and four sixes.
The highlight of the match was the unbeaten 210-run partnership off 86 balls between Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma for the second wicket, setting a record for the highest partnership ever for India in a T20I. Samson remained unbeaten on 109 from 56 balls, while Tilak finished on 120* off 47 balls. India posted an impressive total of 283/1 in their 20 overs.
In response, South Africa struggled and were bowled out for just 148, resulting in a 135-run victory for India. Arshdeep Singh shone with the ball, taking three wickets. With this win, India secured the series 3-1.
The heartwarming gesture of Sanju Samson towards the spectator, coupled with his stellar batting performance, made the fourth T20I against South Africa a memorable match. His resilience and sportsmanship both on and off the field reflect the true spirit of cricket.
