India began their innings in aggressive fashion as debutant Rajat Patidar (22 off 16) struck three fours and a six early. He was, however, bowled by Nandre Burger. Sai Sudharsan was then trapped leg before by Beuran Hendricks for 10.
Samson and captain KL Rahul (21 off 35) lifted India with a third-wicket stand of 52. The former then added 116 with Tilak Varma (52 off 77). While Samson struck six fours and three sixes in his innings, Varma hit five fours and a maximum, overcoming a very slow start. Rinku Singh yet again starred in the death overs. He clubbed 38 off 27 balls, hitting three fours and two sixes. For the Proteas, Beuran Hendricks claimed 3/63.
In the chase, the Proteas openers added 59 in a little over eight overs. Arshdeep broke through by having Reeza Hendricks (19) caught behind with jaffa. Axar Patel then ended Rassie van der Dussen’s (2 off 17) misery, knocking him over with an arm ball.
Opener Tony de Zorzi top-scored for South Africa yet again, smashing 81 off 87 balls, a knock which included six fours and three sixes. Captain Aiden Markram (36) and Heinrich Klaasen (21) looked good, but failed to convert starts. David Miller (10) and Wiaan Mulder (1) also fell cheaply as Avesh Khan and Washington Sundar also chipped in with two wickets each.
Speaking after being named Player of the Match for his excellent hundred, Samson said, “Proud of it, especially considering the result as well. Have been working hard, not just for the past couple of months so it’s nice. This format gives you some extra time to understand the wicket and the bowler’s mindset. Batting at the top of the order gives you those 10-20 extra deliveries.”
India will now face South Africa in two Tests, the first of which will be played SuperSport Park in Centurion starting Boxing Day (December 26).
--By A Cricket Correspondent
