India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson hit a massive six during the fourth T20I against South Africa on Friday, unintentionally striking a female fan in the crowd. The fan, visibly distressed, was left in tears after being hit on the face by the ball. The incident occurred in the 10th over when Samson smashed a towering six off Tristan Stubbs over deep mid-wicket. Medical assistance was provided as the woman was given ice for her injury. Samson, visibly apologetic upon realizing the fan was hurt, gained praise online as the video of the incident went viral.
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In the match, India secured a dominant 135-run victory over South Africa, clinching the four-match series 3-1. Samson was in sensational form, smashing 9 sixes to score an unbeaten 109 off 56 balls. His efforts were complemented by Tilak Varma’s blistering 120 not out off just 47 balls, propelling India to a formidable 283 for 1 in 20 overs—their highest total in overseas conditions.
The innings saw several records tumble, including two Indian batters scoring centuries in the same T20I for the first time. Samson and Varma shared a record-breaking 210-run partnership for the second wicket off just 93 balls, marking the highest partnership for India in T20 Internationals.
During South Africa’s chase, Arshdeep Singh delivered a stunning opening spell, taking 3 wickets for 20 runs and reducing the hosts to 10 for 4. South Africa was eventually bowled out for 148 in 18.2 overs.
Samson’s century, his third in the last five T20I innings, came off 51 balls, while Varma achieved his milestone in just 41 balls. Interestingly, Samson’s recent performances also include two ducks, showcasing a rollercoaster form.