Sanju Samson has given Indian fans a timely reminder of his class just days before the Asia Cup 2025. Playing in the Kerala Cricket League, the wicket-keeper batter hit a breath-taking knock for Kochi Blue Tuskers at the Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.
After a subdued outing earlier in the tournament, Samson returned to the opening slot and delivered one of the finest innings in KCL history. The timing of his hundred - coming so close to India's squad announcement for the Asia Cup, couldn't have been better.
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Sanju Samson smashes record-breaking century in KCL 2025
Facing Aries Kollam Sailors on Sunday, Samson stormed his way to a maiden KCL century in just 42 balls. His innings saw him hit 13 fours and 5 sixes and he reached his half-century in only 16 balls - the fastest in the competition's history, beating Abdul Bazith's 22-ball record.
In a heart-warming moment, Samson's elder brother Saly was at the other end when he reached the milestone. This was only his third match in the tournament and just his second time with the bat.
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After struggling for 13 off 22 balls in his previous outing, the turnaround was remarkable.
Sanju Samson strengthens India's top-order options for Asia Cup 2025
Samson's explosive form is a welcome boost for India as they prepare for the Asia Cup. The 30-year-old had opened the season while battling viral fever but now looks fully fit and back to his best.
His return to the opening slot- after trying the middle order in earlier matches- also strengthens his case for an opener role in the national team. With India searching for in-form batters to complement their top order, Samson's KCL hundred has come at just the right time.
If he carries this touch into the Asia Cup, he could well become one of India's most important players in the UAE.