Sanju Samson’s Unbeaten 87 Powers CSK to Win Over Delhi Capitals; Gavaskar Praises Selfless Knock
Sanju Samson once again showcased his reputation as one of India’s most explosive white-ball batters, guiding Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to a crucial victory over Delhi Capitals with a composed yet commanding unbeaten 87 off 52 balls. In a pressure chase of 155, Samson’s maturity and timing proved decisive as CSK secured their fifth win of the season.
Calm under pressure on a tricky surface
At the Arun Jaitley Stadium (Kotla), where batting was not easy early on, CSK found themselves in trouble at 45/2. With the pitch offering variable bounce and slow turn, stroke-making required patience and precision.
Samson initially played cautiously, reaching 22 off 22 deliveries before shifting gears seamlessly. Once set, he began targeting the Delhi spinners with calculated aggression, bringing up his half-century in the 12th over and gradually taking control of the chase.
Match-winning partnership seals the game
Samson found strong support in Kartik Sharma, and the duo stitched together an unbeaten 114-run partnership off just 66 balls. Their stand effectively took the game away from Delhi Capitals, ensuring CSK chased down the target with ease and composure.
“Would’ve had to be selfish for a hundred”: Samson’s honest admission
After being named Player of the Match, Samson spoke candidly about prioritising the team over personal milestones in his interview with Harsha Bhogle.
“A hundred is always special. But for that, I would have had to be a bit selfish. I didn’t say, ‘Take a single, let me get my hundred.’ I thought it was better to win the match for the team,” he said.
His selfless approach immediately drew praise from former India captain Sunil Gavaskar, who highlighted his maturity and match awareness.
“Patience brings great rewards. He got set and then accelerated. Had Kartik not finished it off, Samson might have had his century. But he played for the team,” Gavaskar remarked.
Sehwag praises evolved game awareness
Former India opener Virender Sehwag also lauded Samson’s improved decision-making and temperament under pressure.
“He was playing percentage cricket, only attacking balls in his zone. Over the last few years, his understanding of the game has improved massively,” Sehwag said.
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Strong season continues for Samson
The knock added to an already impressive season for Samson, who now has two centuries and a half-century, with over 400 runs so far. His consistent form has placed him among the top contenders in the Orange Cap race and a key pillar in CSK’s campaign.
CSK fans celebrate Dhoni-less triumph
In the absence of MS Dhoni, CSK supporters were treated to a commanding display from Samson, with fans at Kotla celebrating his performance throughout the night. The win not only strengthened CSK’s playoff hopes but also reinforced Samson’s growing reputation as a dependable match-winner under pressure.
For CSK, it was another step forward. For Samson, it was another reminder that sometimes, finishing the game matters more than finishing a century.
