IND vs SA: Samson's century leads India to 296 in series decider

India posted a target of 297 runs in the series decider clash at Boland Park in Paarl on Thursday. After being put to bat first by South Africa, debutant Rajat Patidar and Sai Sudharsan got India off to a confident start. Both fell early after their aggressive approach to play big shots.

Innings Break!

Sanju Samson's knock of 108 runs powers #TeamIndia to a total of 296/8.

Scorecard - https://t.co/u5YB5B03eL #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/YG5Xt7HVlF

— BCCI (@BCCI) December 21, 2023

Samson and Varma take charge

Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma steadied the innings, and played a solid knock, taking the proceeding further. Their 116-run partnership proved pivotal, providing India with the necessary stability. Varma ultimately departed for 52 off 77 deliveries, but the momentum remained with India. Varma was dismissed by Keshav Maharaj. Skipper KL Rahul failed again in the series as he was dismissed by Wiaan Mulder. He scored 21 off 35 deliveries.

Samson hits first ton in ODIs

The in-form batter, Rinku Singh played a handy knock at the backend, finding the boundaries with ease. Meanwhile, Samson continued to blossom, inching towards his maiden international century. The elegant right-hander reached the milestone in style, smashing his 100th run off 114 balls with 6 boundaries and 3 sixes. 

𝐌𝐀𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍 𝐇𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐑𝐄𝐃

The wait is over! @IamSanjuSamson scores his first century for India and it has come off 110 balls in the decider at Paarl. 👏🏾👏🏾 https://t.co/nSIIL6gzER #TeamIndia #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/DmOcsNiBwC

— BCCI (@BCCI) December 21, 2023

Blazing cameo of Rinku Singh

Rinku Singh added a quickfire 38 off 27 before departing in the final over. India finished their innings at a commanding 296/8 in 50 overs, setting a daunting target for the Proteas to chase.

Beuran Hendricks was the pick of the bowlers from the South African side, who claimed three-wicket haul. While speedster Nandre Burger scalped two wickets.

South Africa now faces a challenging task, needing to chase down the target of 297 in 50 overs. The stage is set for a thrilling second half, with all eyes on whether the home team can pull off a remarkable comeback or if India will wrap up the series with a comprehensive victory.

Brief Score

India: 296/8 in 50 Overs (Sanju Samson 108, Tilak Varma 52 ) vs South Africa