"Will never make slow runs" - Ravichandran Ashwin on Sanju Samson's 107-run knock in IND vs SA 2024 1st T20I

Ravichandran Ashwin reserved high praise for Sanju Samson following the Team India keeper-batter's stunning century in the T20I series opener against South Africa at Kingsmead, Durban on Friday, November 8. The opening batter dazzled the viewers with a fantastic 107-run knock off just 50 balls.

Speaking about Samson's batting exploits, Ashwin mentioned that the 29-year-old is a player who just cannot score ugly or slow runs. Pointing out how the talented stumper 'decimated' South Africa with his blistering knock, the veteran off spinner said on his YouTube channel (from 15:35):

"I think, first of all, Sanju's impact on the game will never make slow runs, neither will he make ugly runs. Sanju won't be able to do both. Sanju won't play slow. If he hits, it will be like, wow! Sanju has played yet another knock where he just absolutely decimated the opposition."

It is worth mentioning that Sanju Samson became the first Indian batter to hit two back-to-back T20I centuries. His performance helped the Men in Blue register 202/8 in 20 overs and eventually secure a comprehensive 61-run victory.

---

"It has taken some time but he has found the sweet spot" - Ravichandran Ashwin on Sanju Samson

Ravichandran Ashwin emphasized that while Sanju Samson took some time to get going in international cricket, he finally seems to have found his footing. He opined that the right-handed batter has a bright future.

Expressing his delight at Samson's recent performances, Ashwin said in the aforementioned video (from 25:04):

"It is about finding the sweet spot. How has Sanju found the sweet spot? It has taken some time but he has found the sweet spot. He will be on a high. I am so happy for Sanju."

Samson will now be seen in action in the upcoming second T20I of the four-match series between India and South Africa. The match will be played at St George's Park in Gqeberha on Sunday, November 10.

​