Sanju Samson's Clock Ticking as India Faces South Africa in the Third ODI: Predicted XI
As the three-match series between India and South Africa hangs in the balance at 1-1, all eyes are on the decisive third ODI scheduled at Boland Park in Paarl on Thursday. The series kickstarted with India clinching a commanding eight-wicket victory, seizing a 1-0 lead. However, the second ODI witnessed a resurgent South African side, claiming a convincing eight-wicket win to level the series.
In the second ODI showdown, South Africa successfully chased down the target of 212, reaching 215/2 in 42.3 overs. Opener Tony de Zorzi played a pivotal role, crafting a maiden century (119*), complemented by a half-century from Reeze Hendricks (52). Rinku Singh and Arshdeep Singh managed to secure a dismissal each for the Indian side. On the flip side, India faced a batting collapse, getting bowled out for 211 in 46.2 overs, with Sai Sudharsan (62) and KL Rahul (56) contributing crucial half-centuries. Nandre Burger emerged as the standout performer for the South African bowling unit, scalping three dismissals.
Approaching the final ODI, the Indian opening duo is anticipated to feature Ruturaj Gaikwad alongside Sai Sudharsan. Gaikwad, grappling with scores of 5 and 4 in this series, will be eager to rediscover his form. Sudharsan, in contrast, has displayed commendable consistency with back-to-back half-centuries.
Tilak Varma is set to slot in at No. 3, showcasing promise despite not fully realizing it in the previous match where he was dismissed for 10 off 30 balls. KL Rahul, leading the Indian side in the ODI series, will take the No. 4 spot, carrying the good form exhibited in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he scored a valuable half-century (56) in the previous match.
Assuming the wicketkeeper role, Sanju Samson will bat at No. 5. Samson, who was dismissed for 12 off 23 balls in the previous match, aims to make a substantial impact in the series decider. Rinku Singh, primarily known for his proficiency in the death overs, will handle that role and bat at No. 6.
All-rounder Axar Patel is slated to bat at No. 7, sharing the spin responsibilities with Kuldeep Yadav, positioned at No. 8.
Considering the looming Test series, a change in the pace-bowling department might be on the cards. Mukesh Kumar, a consistent presence in every match of the series, maybe rested for the decider to prepare for the upcoming Test series. In his place, Bengal's Akash Deep could make his India debut, with Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan expected to lead the pace attack.
Predicted XI for India vs South Africa in the third ODI: Openers: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sai Sudharsan Middle and Top-order: Tilak Varma, KL Rahul (c), Sanju Samson (wk) Power-hitter: Rinku Singh All-rounder: Axar Patel Spinner: Kuldeep Yadav Pacers: Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, Akash Deep
About Sanju Samson
Sanju Samson: A Cricketing Maestro from Kerala
Early Life and Background:
Born on November 11, 1994, in Trivandrum, Kerala, Sanju Viswanath Samson emerged as a prodigious talent in the world of cricket. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches, this right-handed wicketkeeper-batsman has left an indelible mark on the Indian cricketing landscape, particularly through his stellar performances in domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Sanju's journey in cricket began in Delhi before he made a significant move to Kerala, where he honed his skills in the sport. His parents, Samson Viswanath, and Lijy Viswanath, provided unwavering support throughout his formative years. With a jersey number 9 on his back, he quickly became a recognizable face on the cricket field.
Cricketing Beginnings:
Sanju Samson made his first-class debut for Kerala in 2011, marking the beginning of a promising career. His agility behind the stumps and his elegant batting style quickly set him apart. The cricketing world soon took notice of this rising star.
In 2013, he stepped onto the IPL stage, representing the Rajasthan Royals. His impactful performances in the tournament earned him the Emerging Player of the Year award, underlining his potential as a future cricketing sensation.
International Debut and Milestones:
Sanju Samson's international journey commenced in the T20 format on July 19, 2015, against Zimbabwe in Harare. He later made his One Day International (ODI) debut on July 23, 2021, facing Sri Lanka at Colombo (RPS). While his international opportunities have been sporadic, Samson has consistently showcased his prowess with the bat.
The year 2019 witnessed a remarkable feat as Samson scored an unbeaten 212 in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, making him the sixth Indian to achieve a double-century in List-A cricket. This innings also secured the record for the second-fastest double-century in the format.
Personal Life:
Off the field, Sanju Samson leads a balanced life. Married to Charulatha, he finds solace in reading, showcasing a multifaceted personality. His social media presence reflects his engagement with fans, with Instagram (@imsanjusamson), Facebook (@ImSanjuSamson), and Twitter (@IamSanjuSamson) accounts offering glimpses into both his cricketing and personal endeavors.
Records and Achievements:
Sanju Samson's cricketing resume is adorned with numerous records and milestones. Notably, he holds the record for the most centuries by a wicketkeeper-batsman in the Ranji Trophy, a testament to his consistency and ability to convert starts into substantial scores.
His century in the IPL debut as a captain, scoring 119 against PBKS in IPL 2021 showcased not only his batting prowess but also his leadership skills. Samson's innings included powerful strokes and strategic captaincy, setting him apart in the highly competitive league.
In List A cricket, he boasts the record for the highest total by a wicketkeeper, the fastest double century, and the highest individual score. His partnership with Sachin Baby resulted in the highest 3rd wicket partnership in List A cricket, a testament to his ability to build substantial stands.
His IPL journey has been equally impressive, becoming the youngest batsman to score 2,000 runs and the youngest to reach 1,000 runs. Additionally, he holds the distinction of being the youngest cricketer to captain a Ranji side.
Accolades and Recognition:
Sanju Samson's exceptional performances have not gone unnoticed. In the IPL 2013, he was honored with the Best Young Player of the Season award, marking the beginning of a series of accolades that would come his way.
The highlight of his career remains the fastest double hundred in List-A cricket, a feat that underscored his ability to dominate the bowling attack and amass runs at a remarkable pace.
Conclusion:
Sanju Samson's cricketing journey is a testament to his dedication, skill, and ability to shine in the most challenging of circumstances. As he continues to evolve as a cricketer and a leader, the cricketing fraternity eagerly awaits the chapters he will add to his illustrious career. Whether in the national colors or the vibrant hues of franchise cricket, Sanju Samson's impact is etched into the annals of Indian cricket, and the journey is far from over for this maestro from Kerala
