T20 WC: You performed when it mattered the most - Virat Kohli hails Sanju Samson
Mumbai, March 9
Legendary cricketer Virat Kohli on Sunday heaped praises on India's wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson for his phenomenal performance in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup triumph, for which he was adjudged the Player of the Tournament.
Samson, who came into the playing XI as a replacement player as the top-order was not producing the desired runs because of Abhishek Sharma's poor run of scores, struck half-centuries in three successive matches as India fought back from the brink of elimination to clinch a historic third title in the T20 World Cup. India also became the first nation to win back-to-back titles and to triumph on home soil.
And Samson played a key role in the historic triumph, and Virat Kohli highlighted his contribution in a social media post on Sunday night.
"What a remarkable tournament from the most well-deserved Man of the Tournament @imsanjusamson. You performed when it mattered the most. Really happy for you, Chetta," wrote Kohli in his Instagram story that was accompanied by a poster by ICC declaring Samson as the Player of the Tournament.
Samson really turned out to be the star of the campaign for India. He first rescued the team with a masterful unbeaten 97 against the West Indies that helped India emerge victorious in the do-or-die Super 8 stage match.
He then scored 89 in the semifinal against England, which laid the foundation of India's massive score of 253/7 against England at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, as India won by seven runs.
The 35-year-old from Kerala did it again in the final, top-scoring with 89 to help India post another massive total as they defeated New Zealand by 96 runs.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Virat calling him "Chetta" (elder brother in Malayalam) is so heartwarming! Shows the respect and bond in the team. Samson was absolutely clinical under pressure. That innings against WI saved our campaign.
While I'm thrilled we won, let's be honest, the selection was a bit lucky. He was a replacement. What does this say about our initial planning? We need a more stable middle order strategy moving forward.
Back-to-back titles and winning at home! The atmosphere must have been electric. Samson's consistency in the knockouts was unbelievable. 89 in both the semi and the final? That's champion mentality.
From Kerala with pride! 🎉 He's been a star for Rajasthan Royals for years. Finally, the whole country gets to see his talent on the biggest stage. Well deserved, Sanju!
Incredible composure. To come in as a replacement and perform like that under the weight of expectation is remarkable. Kohli's praise means a lot coming from him. Great team spirit on display.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.