Sanju Samson starred with the bat during India’s comprehensive 61-run victory over South Africa in the first T20I at Kingsmead, Durban on Friday (November 8).

Opening the innings, the right-hander slammed 107 off 50 balls, including seven boundaries and 10 sixes. With this knock, Samson became the first India and fourth batter overall to score back-to-back T20I hundreds. He also equalled the record of Rohit Sharma for the most sixes hit by an Indian batter in a Men's T20I innings.

Speaking to broadcasters in the mid-innings, Samson reflected on his approach, saying that he had entered “a zone” during his whirlwind display in Durban.

"I was in a zone, it was automatically flowing, so I let it flow. If the ball is there to be hit, go for it. Focus on one ball at a time and that helps. The wicket does play a big role here, extra bounce and coming from India we do take time to understand the wicket. There's a huge wind blowing from one end and their bowlers bowled very well, our bowlers too would like to copy from them," Samson said in the mid-innings interaction.

"If I think a lot, I will get emotional," he admitted, expressing his desire to stay grounded and avoid overthinking. “I waited for this moment for 10 years. I’m very happy, grateful, and blessed," he added.

Samson’s innings propelled India to a formidable total of 202/8, setting the stage for a strong bowling performance.

“The wicket does play a big role here, extra bounce and coming from India we do take time to understand the wicket. There's a huge wind blowing from one end and their bowlers bowled very well, our bowlers too would like to copy from them," he remarked.

Chasing the target, the Proteas innings folded for 141 in 17.5 overs. It was a listless batting display as no one managed to touch the 30-run mark.

The spin twin of Varun Chakaravarthy (3-25) and Ravi Bishnoi (3-28) were the wrecker-in-chief with the ball for India, claiming three wickets each in their four overs.

Following the game, Sanju Samson was deservedly adjudged Player-of-the-Match and he spoke about utilising his current form at the presentation ceremony.

“Really enjoyed my time in the middle. Playing it well, maximum utilisation of my current form you can say,” he said.

After scripting India’s victory, Samson highlighted on the importance of intent and keeping the team ahead of personal goals.

"The intent, we have been talking about being aggressive and keeping the team ahead of yourselves. Once you play three-four balls you are looking for the boundary," he stated.

While Samson acknowledged that this approach involves a degree of risk, he is looking to maintain a fearless mindset at the crease.

"I'm not thinking much, sometimes it pays off, sometimes it doesn't. I am happy it worked out well today."

Samson was also happy that they started the four-match T20I series with a victory. “It was very crucial, knowing the home advantage South Africa has, they are a gun side and it was important to start the series well. Happy that we started with a win,” he concluded.

The second T20I between the two teams is due to be held in Gqeberha on Sunday (November 10).