Sanju Samson played a key role in India’s series-clinching five-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the second ODI at Harare Sports Club on Saturday (August 20).

Chasing 162 to win, the visitors lost their four wickets inside 100 runs. It was then Samson took the responsibility and slammed 43 off 39 balls to take his team over the line in 25.4 overs.

Samson impressed one and all with his keeping as well. He grabbed three catches behind the stumps, including a one-handed stunner to dismiss Zimbabwe opener T Kaitano.

Barring one moment when he fumbled and missed a stumping, Samson had a great outing as a wicket-keeper in the second ODI.

“I took three catches but I missed a stumping too; as keepers we’re used to listening to things we didn’t do well," Samson said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

For his all-round show, Sanju Samson earned his maiden Player-of-the-Match in international cricket. His match-winning knock was studded with three fours and four sixes.

“How much ever time you spend in the middle feels good. I really enjoyed (my) keeping and contributing to the win," Samson said.

He also complimented the Indian fast bowlers who once again troubled the Zimbabwe batters.

“In this match the fast bowlers picked the length much quicker and I really enjoyed keeping," Samson said.

With this victory, India took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the ODI series. The third and final ODI will be played at the same venue on Monday (August 20).