In a high-octane finale to the T20I series against Bangladesh on October 12, 2024, Sanju Samson etched his name in history with a scintillating century. Blasting 111 runs off just 47 balls, Samson’s innings was a display of relentless aggression and precision. Reaching his century in only 40 balls, it became the second-fastest T20I hundred by an Indian, following Rohit Sharma’s record. Samson’s magnificent knock, studded with eight towering sixes and nine boundaries, was the highlight of India’s monumental total of 297/6.
Dominating Bangladesh from the Start
From the very beginning, Samson took control, launching a fierce attack on the Bangladesh bowlers. His fireworks began early in the innings as he sent deliveries from Taskin Ahmed to the boundary with ease. The turning point of his innings came in the 10th over when he smashed five consecutive sixes off leg-spinner Rishad Hossain. It was a breathtaking spectacle that left the opposition stunned and the crowd roaring. Samson’s fifty came in just 22 balls, setting the tone for what was to follow.
Not only did Samson display raw power, but his placement and timing were impeccable. One of the most elegant shots was his lofted six over the covers, showing his ability to combine finesse with brute force. Throughout his innings, Samson maintained pressure on the Bangladesh bowling attack, forcing them into defensive positions while he capitalized on every loose delivery.
Record-Setting Partnership with Suryakumar Yadav
Supporting Samson’s explosive innings was Suryakumar Yadav, who contributed 75 off 35 balls in a rapid partnership that yielded 173 runs from just 70 deliveries. This partnership was the bedrock of India’s innings, as both players rotated the strike expertly and cleared the boundary regularly. Their combined efforts propelled India to a massive total, with the score crossing 200 in just 14 overs. Bangladesh simply had no answers to this onslaught.
Breaking Boundaries: New Records Set
India’s total of 297/6 set multiple records:
- Highest T20I score by a full-member nation: The total surpassed India’s previous highest score in T20 Internationals and marked the highest by any full-member team in T20I history.
- Fastest milestones: India breached the 100-run mark in just 7.1 overs and surged past 200 within 14 overs. These feats underscored the team’s dominance and tactical brilliance in the shortest format.
Samson’s 40-ball century ranks second only to Rohit Sharma’s 35-ball century for India, solidifying his reputation as one of India’s premier T20 hitters.
Finishing Strong
Even after the departures of Samson and Yadav, India maintained their aggressive approach. Hardik Pandya’s rapid 47 off 18 balls and Riyan Parag’s explosive 34 from 13 deliveries further punished the Bangladesh bowlers. Together, they ensured that India posted an almost unassailable target, piling on runs with boundary-laden shots towards the end of the innings.
Victory Sealed in Style
India’s massive total left Bangladesh with an impossible task. The visiting side faltered in their chase, and India secured a 133-run victory, completing a 3-0 series sweep. Samson’s knock will be remembered as one of the greatest in T20I cricket, not just for the runs but for the manner in which he took control of the game and dismantled the opposition’s plans.
This historic win reaffirmed India’s dominance in T20 cricket and highlighted the depth of their batting lineup, with Samson emerging as a key figure in the team’s future campaigns.