Dashing Indian opener Sanju Samson reflected on his match-winning performance in the first T20I of the five-match series against New Zealand at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Thursday, October 22.
Chasing a target of 226, Samson produced an explosive knock of 67 off 33 deliveries, smashing eight fours and four sixes at a strike rate of 203.03 before being bowled by Mitchell Santner.
Speaking at the post-match presentation after being named Player of the Match, Samson revealed that he and opening partner Abhishek Sharma focus on watching the ball and hitting it hard, without engaging in too much discussion at the crease. The duo laid a strong foundation for the chase with a 93-run opening partnership.
“Feels really good. We are just in the moment where we have won the match, and whatever contribution you make, you feel good if you win. Nice overall contribution by everyone. We do have conversations but it does not make any sense. We just watch the ball and hit it hard,” Samson said.
Samson further highlighted the change in conditions during the second innings, noting that while the ball came onto the bat nicely in the first innings, there was considerably more swing on offer during India’s chase.
“There was a lot of swing – too much in the second half, actually. Off the surface, it was coming on nicely, so we were trying to hold our shape. I summed up the game plan while keeping wickets, but when I came out to bat, it was totally different,” he added.
The second T20I of the five-match series will also be played at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Saturday, October 22.
