Saralnama
Sanju Samson scored a rapid 121 off 51 balls to guide Kochi Blue Tigers to a thrilling last-ball victory over Aries Kollam Sailors in the Kerala Cricket League at Greenfield Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram. Chasing a target of 237, Samson opened the innings and reached his century in 42 balls, hitting 14 fours and seven sixes. His fastest fifty came in just 16 deliveries, helping Kochi post a tournament record 100 runs in the first six overs. Despite wickets falling at the other end, Samson’s innings set up a tense finish, with rookie teammate Mohammed Ashique hitting a six off the final ball to seal the win. Samson, who has been a key T20I opener for India since 2024, acknowledged the emerging talent in Kerala cricket and urged continued investment in local players. The match drew a crowd of 11,000, and Samson received the Player of the Match award. His performance strengthens his case for retaining an opening spot in India’s Asia Cup squad starting September 10 in Dubai, where competition for places includes Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma. (Updated 25 Aug 2025, 13:17 IST; source: link)