IND vs WI: 'My Job Is to Give a Great Start', says Sanju Samson after Ranchi Knock

Sanju Samson delivered a powerful response to his recent struggles with the bat, smashing a blistering half-century against West Indies in the second T20I at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi on Friday.

The Indian wicketkeeper-batter reached his fifty in just 21 balls, matching Virat Kohli's record for the fastest half-century by an Indian against West Indies in T20 Internationals. Samson's aggressive innings helped India maintain the momentum after losing an early wicket.

Samson eventually departed for 82 off 41 deliveries, striking nine fours and four sixes at a strike rate of 200. His innings provided the foundation for India's attacking approach against the visitors.

Asked what made this innings different from his previous four outings, Samson insisted that his preparation and mindset had remained unchanged.

"Being a professional cricketer playing for India, I think you definitely take care of the professional side of it. You do your preparation, you do your practice, you do your training, you do everything possible in your hands," Samson said.

The right-hander acknowledged the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket, stressing that individual results cannot always be controlled. However, he made it clear that his responsibility was to give India a strong start rather than change his approach after a few low scores.

"My job is to just give a great start for my country, and I try to do that, and I take the responsibility when I get out also," he added.

Samson's innings was particularly significant after he managed only 11 runs in the series opener in Lucknow. Rather than allowing that dismissal to affect his confidence, he returned to his attacking instincts in Ranchi.

India scored a mammoth 249 runs after batting first in Ranchi, but despite scoring that, they failed to defend as Shai Hope and co. chased the total down to stun India and restore parity in the series.