In the ongoing IPL 2024 clash between RR and GT, Skipper Sanju Samson’s performance stole the limelight as he showcased exceptional skill and dominance with the bat. Samson scored unbeaten on 68 off 38 balls. Samson and Riyan Parag register second-highest 3rd wicket partnership for Rajasthan Royals. This pair got together at 42 for two and put together 130 runs for the third wicket off just 80 deliveries

Samson’s Dominance in the Match

Sanju Samson’s innings proved crucial for his team, the Rajasthan Royals. He displayed impeccable batting prowess under pressure, and his contributions played a pivotal role in shaping the outcome throughout the match. Samson scored unbeaten on 68 off 38 balls. 

See Also: Riyan Parag lifts RR to score commanding total; Netizens applaud

Analyzing Samson’s batting technique reveals his ability to adapt to different balling styles and conditions. His command over a wide range of shots, coupled with impeccable timing, made him a formidable force on the field.

During the match, Samson showcased his talent with several noteworthy shots. He capitalized on loose deliveries, dispatching them to the boundary effortlessly. His aggressive yet calculated approach put the opposition bowlers on the back foot, allowing him to accumulate runs consistently.

Sanju became the second captain after Warne to achieve the record of captaining RR in 50 matches. Warne, RR’s first captain, led the franchise in 55 matches. Under him, RR surprised everyone by winning the IPL 2008 title. He captained RR to 30 wins from 55 matches.

Samson became RR’s captain before IPL 2021. The franchise released Steve Smith before IPL 2021 and handed the captaincy to Samson. After struggling in his maiden season as captain, Samson did wonders in IPL 2022 and captained RR to their first final since 2008. RR lost to Gujarat Titans in the final.

Partnership with Riyan Parag

Samson’s partnership with Riyan Parag exemplified this concept perfectly. Together, they orchestrated an impressive stand, adding valuable runs to the team’s total. Samson, Riyan Parag register second-highest 3rd wicket partnership for Rajasthan Royals. The pair got together at 42 for two and put together 130 runs for the third wicket off just 80 deliveries

Riyan Parag’s contribution perfectly complemented Samson’s innings, providing stability and firepower when needed. Their collaboration not only boosted the team’s morale but also demoralized the opposition bowlers.

Highest partnership for RR for 3rd or lower wickets in IPL
152* – S Samson & B Stokes vs MI, Abu Dhabi, 2020
130 – S Samson & R Parag vs GT, Jaipur, 2024*
107 – P Dogra & Y Pathan vs MI, Brabourne, 2010
104 – G Smith & S Watson vs RCB, Bengaluru, 2008

Match Overview

The match witnessed a thrilling display of cricket, with Rajasthan Royals posting a commendable score. Despite initial setbacks, Samson’s heroics, coupled with notable contributions from other players, propelled the team to a competitive total.

RR end with a very good score. Buttler failed tonight and Jaiswal again did not last beyond the powerplay. Parag was dropped twice by Wade early on off Rashid Khan and that proved costly. The duo (Samson and Parag) settled down and then began the rebuilding work. Parag took heavy toll on Noor, smashing him on the leg-side for three sixes. The stand was worth 130 and GT after a good start couldn’t get rid of them. At the end Hetmyer hit a six and ensured his contribution. Once again RR’s skipper Samson came good – his third fifty in 5 games and 196 is a good score. RR have a good bowling lineup and they will be backing themselves.

Most 50+ scores for RR in all T20s
25 – Sanju Samson (131 inns)*
24 – Jos Buttler (76 inns)
23 – Ajinkya Rahane (99 inns)
16 – Shane Watson (81 inns)
9 – Yashasvi Jaiswal (42 inns)

Highest scores in 50th IPL match as captain
68* (38) – Sanju Samson (RR) vs GT, 2024*
59 (46) – Gautam Gambhir (KKR) vs RCB, 2013
65 (48) – Rohit Sharma (MI) vs DC, 2016
45 (33) – David Warner (SRH) vs DC, 2021