‘My forever favourite hero’: Charu in awe of hubby Sanju

Charulatha Remesh, wife of star wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson, took to social media to share a heartfelt tribute to her husband after his brilliant century helped India secure victory over South Africa in the first T20I in Durban. On Instagram, Charulatha reshared a post from Rajasthan Royals (RR) celebrating Samson's achievement, adding the touching caption: "My forever favourite hero."

Samson became the first Indian batter to hit back-to-back centuries in T20 Internationals with his stunning 50-ball 107, which included 10 monstrous sixes. This innings marked his second consecutive T20I century, following a 47-ball 111 against Bangladesh in Hyderabad on October 12.

Sanju Samson tied the knot with his college mate and long-time girlfriend, Charulatha, in 2018.

‘Sanju’s journey so far’

Sanju Samson recalled the time he had big self-doubts about failing to recreate his IPL success at the international level. 

Since his T20I debut in 2015, Samson batted at literally every position but didn’t get much success due to a combination of a lack of decent runs at one position and inconsistency in scores. But since being promoted to open the batting, Samson has found his groove via centuries in Hyderabad and Durban.

Friday’s game in Durban saw Samson become the first India batter and fourth overall to hit two centuries in a row in men's T20Is, with his knock laced with seven fours and ten sixes, as the visitors completed an emphatic 61-run win.

"Honestly in my career, I have had more failures than success. When you go through those failures, you start doubting yourself. People obviously say things, social media definitely plays its role, and then you also start thinking about it."

"It’s like 'Sanju, are you not made for international level? You are doing well in the IPL, why is it not happening in international (cricket)?' I did have lots of thoughts, but after so many years of experience, I know my abilities."

"If I spend some time in the middle, I know I have the shot-making abilities against spin and pace. And I know I can contribute to the team's success and help them win a match. I kept telling myself, 'No, it's not like that. This is also a reality'. There are lots of downs happening, but the upside is also really good'," said Samson to reporters at Kingsmead.

Cricket enthusiasts are thrilled as Sanju continues his roaring form.  (With inputs from Agencies)