Sanju Samson’s cricketing journey has always been a rollercoaster, especially in red-ball cricket. On September 20, 2024, Samson finally notched his maiden century in the Duleep Trophy, scoring an aggressive 106 off 101 balls for India D against India B in Anantapur. This innings came at a critical time for the Kerala-born cricketer, as he sought to make a significant impact ahead of the upcoming Ranji Trophy season.
A Century After Nearly Five Years
Samson’s hundred in the Duleep Trophy is his 11th first-class century but holds special significance since it comes nearly five years after his last one, which he scored against Bengal in December 2019. In that period, he had played only nine first-class matches, making his red-ball appearances sporadic. However, in this match, Samson delivered a commanding performance under pressure, helping India D post a competitive total.
Walking in at No. 6 with his team in a precarious position at 216/5, Samson launched a counter-attack on the India B bowling lineup. He was supported by useful partnerships, especially with Saransh Jain, and took on bowlers like Navdeep Saini and Rahul Chahar. Samson’s innings was laced with 12 boundaries and three towering sixes, reaching his century off just 92 balls.
Turning the Game Around
Samson’s innings was vital as India D had started strongly with half-centuries from Devdutt Padikkal, KS Bharat, and Ricky Bhui. However, after quick dismissals of Nishant Sindhu and captain Shreyas Iyer, the team looked in danger of collapsing. Samson ensured that didn’t happen by playing a free-flowing knock, eventually steering India D to a total of 349 runs.
His knock, which ended at 106, was the fastest century in this year’s Duleep Trophy, adding another layer to his growing reputation as a powerful middle-order batsman. Though Navdeep Saini eventually dismissed him, Samson’s contribution set up a solid platform for his team in the first innings.
Boost to His Red-Ball Credentials
For Samson, this hundred is not just about the scoreboard but also a boost to his red-ball credentials. Known more for his aggressive, white-ball cricketing skills, this Duleep Trophy performance comes as a timely reminder of his potential in longer formats. As he heads into the domestic season with Kerala, this knock will provide him with immense confidence.
At 29, Samson is still in the reckoning for a long-term place in the Indian cricket team, particularly in formats like the Ranji Trophy and even Tests. His ability to step up when his team needed him the most will likely not go unnoticed by the selectors. With the Ranji Trophy season on the horizon, his performance in the Duleep Trophy gives him a firm platform to build upon.
Looking Ahead
As Rajasthan Royals captain, Samson has established himself as a leader in the Indian Premier League (IPL), but performances like this in red-ball cricket will strengthen his case for a national team spot in all formats. Given the stiff competition in India’s middle order, Samson will need to maintain this form in the domestic season to keep himself in the frame for future selection.
Samson’s century also underscores the importance of the Duleep Trophy in showcasing India’s domestic talent. As the tournament continues to serve as a breeding ground for future stars, performances like Samson’s help maintain its relevance and prestige.
In the end, Sanju Samson’s first Duleep Trophy century isn’t just another statistic—it’s a statement of intent from a player determined to cement his place in Indian cricket across all formats. With the red-ball season just beginning, it will be exciting to see how Samson builds on this milestone.