Sanju Samson said that India did not get the Asian Games gold on a platter. India defeated Pakistan by 19 runs to defend their gold. The game was far from
one-sided, as has been the case with India-Pakistan matches in recent times, but Pakistan also produced a decent show and gave India a slight scare, courtesy of Hasan Nawaz's brilliant 96. Samson said that bringing an experienced squad for the Asian Games allowed India to stay calm under pressure, aiding in the team's title-winning run. “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,” he added. On the final against Pakistan, Samson said that it was a good match and Pakistan were able to give India a tough fight due to a strong batting performance. The fact that India had to fight hard for the gold made the win even more satisfying for Sanju Samson. “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,” he said. Samson acknowledged that the team was aware of the occasion, but added that the players did not allow the magnitude of the tournament dictate their approach. “Definitely, it's a big occasion and a big opportunity for all of us to represent our country in an Asian Games final. “That is what happens before and after the game. But once the game starts, we play according to the demands of the match conditions and match situations,” he said.
