Twitter Goes Into Overdrive As Sanju Samson Smashes 86 Runs In First ODI vs South Africa

Right-handed batter Sanju Samson might not have been able to win the first ODI for India against South Africa, but he is gaining a lot of applause for the way he constructed an 86-run innings against the Proteas. Known to be a ferocious hitter of the ball, Samson took his time initially and uncharacteristically, he looked to take the game deep. In the final over, hosts India needed 30 runs, and Samson made a match out of it as the side needed 15 off 3 balls. However, he failed to connect on the fourth delivery of the over, and in the end, South Africa wrapped a 9-run victory.

After the game, many took to Twitter to applaud the knock played by Samson against all-odds.

Came in at 51/4. Finished with 86* off 63. Gave the nation hope.Proud of you, Sanju Samson. pic.twitter.com/Pp0kix7PoR

That was a valiant effort from Sanju Samson. Tough luck but a very high quality innings.

Top class from sanju Samson, very aggressive, very impressive, you deserve the applause!! @IamSanjuSamson

Well played Sanju Samson. Hard luck for now winning the game

The one that stole our tonight.#INDvSA #TeamIndia #BelieveInBlue #SanjuSamson pic.twitter.com/4iyCRVtVj7

Tried so hard and got so far but in the end it doesn't even matterLone warrior Sanju Samson #SanjuSamson #INDvSA pic.twitter.com/3xBh5fNOEp

After the match, former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn complimented Samson, saying he has the ability to hit sixes like Yuvraj Singh.

"As soon as KG (Kagiso Rabada) bowled that no-ball in the last ball of his over, I was like, 'please don't let this happen'. Because you never know with someone like Sanju, especially with the form that he has got and the belief that he has. I watched him in the IPL, his ability to take down the bowlers and hit boundary