India captain KL Rahul conceded that a “phenomenal” Sanju Samson was finding it difficult to find a place in the side as stalwarts in the team occupy key spots.

Samson smashed his maiden ODI century on Thursday as India won by 78 runs to wrap up the series 2-1.

“Pleased for Sanju, he’s been a phenomenal performer in the IPL over the years. Unfortunately, we haven’t been able to give him the chance at No. 3, because obviously there are stalwarts in the ODIs who occupy those key spots.

“Glad he was able to grab his chances here,” said Rahul.

The team’s focus, Rahul added, will now shift to the two-Test series.

“Will celebrate with the the boys and then switch back to focusing on the Test series in a day or two. Love being around the boys, that’s how it’s been since I came over to South Africa after some time away following a disappointing World Cup final,” he added.

Samson said he was happy to have scored his maiden ODI century in 16 outings.

PTI