Sanju Samson equals Virat Kohli’s record with a 21-ball fifty against West Indies

Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson (Image credit: BCCI) NEW DELHI: Sanju Samson responded to his disappointing outing in the series opener with a blistering half-century in the second T20I against West Indies in Ranchi on Friday, equaling Virat Kohli’s record for the joint-fastest fifty by an Indian against a Caribbean side in the format.Samson brought up his half-century in just 21 balls, equaling Kohli’s effort at the Wankhede Stadium in 2019. The wicketkeeper’s explosive start also led India to their highest power-play score against West Indies in T20Is – 79/1, surpassing the previous mark of 72 not out at the Wankhede in 2019.After managing just 11 in the series opener in Lucknow, Samson made an emphatic statement at the JSCA International Stadium, attacking the West Indies bowlers and giving India a flying start after skipper Shreyas Iyer was asked to bat first.

Two postponements, then a record fifty

Samson’s innings was as aggressive as luck. He was dropped for a six in the third over and was given another reprieve for 42 in the sixth, in 5.4 overs. He made the West Indies pay almost immediately, reaching his fifty-two balls later with back-to-back boundaries.The milestone arrived in style at the end of the power play. Facing Romario Shepherd, Samson drove the full delivery neatly over extra cover for four to complete his 21-ball half-century. He raised the bat briefly before turning his attention back to the task at hand.His strike featured six fours and three sixes, underscoring the extent of his strokeplay and his intent to dominate from the outset.Samson’s response was particularly significant after his modest comeback in Lucknow, where India won the opening match by eight wickets. The right-hander looked determined to strike early and ensure the home side maintain their momentum in the five-match series.

Abhishek, Samson give India a flying start

Samson added 42 runs for the opening wicket with Abhishek Sharma contributing 20 off 12 balls in a four-over partnership. After Abhishek’s departure, Samson continued to lead the score alongside Ishan Kishan and kept the pressure on the West Indies attack.The explosive start came after West Indies captain Shai Hope opted to bowl first and expected the wet conditions to worsen as the evening progressed. Hope also made one change to his side, bringing on Gudakesh Motie in place of Forde.India captain Iyer confirmed the unchanged playing XI and said his team will adapt to the conditions while maintaining their standards throughout the match.“We were also looking to bowl first, we will have to adapt quickly. We talked about maintaining the standards for 40 overs. We want to put ourselves in front of ourselves to improve. We are going with the same team,” Iyer said at the toss.