The medal was not served to us on a golden platter, says Samson after Asiad cricket success

Nagoya: Malayali cricketer Sanju Samson, reflecting on India’s Asian Games men’s cricket success, said the gold medal was not served ‘on a platter’, but a result of fielding an experienced squad which helped the team, especially in handling the pressures of a final against Pakistan. India defeated arch-rivals Pakistan to retain men’s cricket gold at the Games event on Saturday.

“We had a very experienced team. That’s where the experience of experienced players comes in. We knew how to manage our energy, how to keep ourselves motivated and focused even when practices were not happening and matches were not happening,” Samson said after the match.

“Bringing the ‘A’ team really helped, and that’s what happened against Pakistan in the final. I think it was a proper game for everyone.”

India tallied a massive total of 211 for six, courtesy of Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma’s half centuries. Pakistan responded with Hasan Nawaz’s formidable innings in the run chase, leading to a closely contested match that ultimately ended in India’s favour.

“Finally, we got to play a good match. We scored 200 in the first innings and thought the second innings could be difficult for Pakistan, but the wicket was good and they also batted well. Everyone got to see a good final.”

“We did not get the gold on a platter. We had to really work hard for it. That makes it all the more satisfying, and we are all happy,” added Sanju.
(With PTI inputs).