Published By: Sanchari Das

IND vs ENG T20I: Spotlight on Sanju Samson's Dominant T20I Numbers

With a record-breaking year and blistering form, Sanju Samson is ready to make his mark in the upcoming T20I series against England

The first T20I match between India and England at Eden Gardens is all set to deliver fireworks. Fans are excited to witness India, under Suryakumar Yadav, take on a strong English side in this five-match series. Amidst the star-studded lineup, all eyes are on Sanju Samson, who has been in phenomenal form. Debuting against Zimbabwe in 2015, he had to wait five years for his next opportunity, battling fierce competition for the wicketkeeper's slot. However, since 2023, Samson has established himself as India's go-to opener in T20Is. With a natural flair for big hits, the Kerala batter has flourished under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav. Despite being overlooked for ODIs, his stunning performances in T20Is highlight his importance to the team.

The beginning of his century spree

Samson's first T20I century came against Bangladesh in October 2024. Struggling in the initial games of the series, he found his rhythm in the third match at Hyderabad. Opening the innings, he smashed 111 off just 47 balls, with 11 fours and eight sixes. This extraordinary knock propelled India to a colossal total of 297. Samson became the first Indian wicketkeeper to hit a T20I century and shattered multiple records, including the highest individual score in an India-Bangladesh T20I.

A dazzling knock in Durban

Samson followed his maiden century with another gem against South Africa in Durban. Promoted as an opener, he silenced critics with a blistering 107, featuring seven fours and 10 sixes. This knock marked him as the fourth player in T20I history to score back-to-back centuries. His explosive batting lifted India to a match-winning 202/8, underlining his value as a big-game player. Though Tilak Varma later broke his record for the highest T20I score in India-South Africa matches, Samson's innings remain unforgettable.

A record-breaking finish in Johannesburg

Samson capped 2024 with his third T20I century during the series finale against South Africa in Johannesburg. He remained unbeaten on 109 off 56 balls, crafting a spectacular innings with nine sixes and six fours. Partnering with Tilak Varma for a record 210-run stand, Samson powered India to a mammoth 283/1. This knock cemented his place among India's T20I greats, making him the first player to score three T20I centuries in a calendar year. He now stands behind only Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav in T20I centuries for India.

Home and away 

Samson's T20I stats showcase his adaptability. In 25 innings on foreign soil, he has amassed 592 runs at an average of 28.19. At home, he has scored 218 runs in just eight innings, with an incredible strike rate of 183.19. This includes a century against Bangladesh, highlighting his ability to deliver on diverse pitches. With a career strike rate of 155.17, Samson remains one of India's most dependable T20I batsmen.

Eyeing Dhoni's record

The upcoming series against England offers Samson a chance to surpass MS Dhoni's T20I six-hitting record. With 46 sixes in 33 innings, Samson needs six more to overtake Dhoni's tally of 52 maximums. Achieving this feat would place him among India's top 10 six-hitters in T20Is. As India's first-choice opener post-Rohit Sharma's retirement, Samson's power-hitting and consistency make him a key asset for the team's future in T20 cricket.

Overall T20I achievements

Sanju Samson's T20I stats reflect his immense talent and ability to rise to the occasion. In 37 matches, he has amassed 810 runs at an average of 27.93 and a blistering strike rate of 155.17. His tally includes three centuries, all scored in 2024, making him the first player to achieve this feat in a calendar year. Samson's strike rate + average of 183.1 is a testament to his impact. Moreover, his 31 sixes in 2024 were the highest by any Indian batter that year.

Samson's stellar form

Sanju Samson's recent form has been remarkable. In his last 13 matches, he has scored 436 runs at an average of 43.60 and a strike rate of 180.16. With two centuries, his Player of the Series performance in South Africa showcased his ability to dominate quality bowling attacks. Despite missing the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Samson's T20I exploits speak volumes about his potential. For fans at Eden Gardens and beyond, the question is: will Samson deliver another show-stopping performance? If history is any indication, the answer is a resounding yes.