Johannesburg: Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma's stunning centuries and record 210-run second-wicket partnership powered India to a commanding 135-run victory over South Africa in the fourth T20I at Johannesburg, sealing the series 3-1. Samson, smashing his third T20I century of the year, scored 109* off 56 balls, while Tilak struck 120* off 47. Defending 284, India bowled out South Africa for 148 in 18.2 overs, with Arshdeep Singh taking 3/20 to seal the win.
Speaking on his hundred today, Tilak Varma, who was Player of the Match and the Player of the Series said, “Last year when I played, I got out first-ball here. This was a crucial knock for the team in the context of the series. I just wanted to hold my shape and back myself, and stick to my basics. I was calm and was just trying to follow the basics. It is an unbelievable feeling. I never imagined I would score two hundreds - that too in South Africa, and I cannot express my feelings. I want to thank God and my captain Suryakumar Yadav.”
Talking about his celebrations, he said, “I was injured for the last couple of months, and I was just believing in my processes and when I got my hundred, I just pointed towards God.”
Suryakumar Yadav, the India captain, said, “There is no secret to adapting to the conditions and situations. Our plans were very clear. Last time when we came here, we played the same brand of cricket and wanted to continue that. The game today, we spoke about it and we wanted to follow those good habits. Didn't think about the results and it happened automatically.”
Speaking about India’s batting, he said, “It is very difficult for me to choose between the two (Tilak and Sanju). It was amazing batting skills displayed by Abhishek, Sanju and Tilak. We spoke about it and they walked the talk.”
Talking about their bowling, , SUrya said, “We knew there is something definitely in the wicket after the lights come on and the temperature drops. We just followed that, stuck to our lines and the result was right in front of us. It gives a big boost after winning an ICC tournament, winning from where we won. It was incredible the way we won that. Coming into this series, it is always challenging to come here and to win and go back home. This is a special win and will stay with me forever.”
