Sanju Samson, long known for his powerful batting, has often shown flashes of potential but struggled with consistency. However, recent performances show he’s ready to shine on the international stage, delivering a series of impressive innings. In the first T20I of a four-match series against South Africa, Samson’s explosive 107 runs at Kingsmead, Durban, on November 8 put him firmly in the spotlight. Facing South Africa’s skilled bowlers, Samson reached his hundred in just 47 balls, marking his place in Indian T20I history.
Let’s take a look at the five records Sanju Samson achieved during his remarkable innings.
1. First Indian Wicketkeeper to Score a T20I Century Against South Africa
Sanju Samson became the first Indian wicketkeeper-batter to score a T20I century against South Africa. This incredible feat also made him the fastest Indian wicketkeeper to reach 100 against the Proteas, showing his skill both as a batsman and as a wicketkeeper-batter.
2. Fastest T20I Century by an Indian Against South Africa
Samson’s century came in just 47 balls, making it the fastest T20I hundred by an Indian against South Africa. He broke Suryakumar Yadav’s previous record, reaching the milestone with ease and aggression. Moving from 50 to 100 in just 20 balls, Samson dominated the South African bowlers, achieving his century in the 15th over off Keshav Maharaj.
3. Equaled the Record for Most Sixes by an Indian in a T20I Inning
During this powerful innings, Samson smashed 10 sixes along with seven boundaries, tying the record for the most sixes by an Indian batter in a single T20I. Rohit Sharma set this record in 2017 against Sri Lanka, and Samson’s ability to hit big showcased his power and control over the game.
4. Highest Individual T20I Score in Matches Between India and South Africa
Sanju Samson’s 107 runs didn’t just set a personal record; they also became the highest individual score in T20I clashes between India and South Africa. His score surpassed the previous high of 106 not out by South Africa’s David Miller against India in 2022, adding yet another achievement to his name.
5. First Indian to Score Consecutive T20I Centuries
With this century, Samson became the first Indian player to hit back-to-back centuries in T20Is. In his previous match, he scored a hundred against Bangladesh, and following it up with another century against South Africa made him part of an elite group of players to have achieved consecutive T20I centuries. Only three other players worldwide—Gustav Mckeon, Rilee Roussouw, and Phil Salt—have achieved this feat, marking a major milestone in Samson’s career.
Sanju Samson’s recent performance is a reminder of his potential to become one of India’s leading T20I players. These records reflect his growth as a player and his impact on Indian cricket.
