Unfortunately haven't been able to give Samson chance at No. 3, says K.L. Rahul

Sanju Samson grabs chance with maiden ODI century, Arshdeep Singh's 10 wickets help India win series 2-1.

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, adding that he was pleased the talented cricketer grabbed his chance in the series against the Proteas.

Samson, elevated to No.3 spot, smashed his maiden ODI century in the third and final match against the Proteas on December 21 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 following the big win.

Samson's measured 108 (114 balls) and Tilak Varma's patient 52 (77 balls) guided India to a competitive 296 for eight. South Africa challenged the tourists through a fifty by Tony de Zorzi (81, 87 balls) but were eventually bowled out for 218 in 45.5 overs.

Samson didn't get the opportunity in the first ODI as the target set by South Africa was very low, while in the second match, the wicketkeeper-batter scored 12 coming in at No.5. But in the decider, he was elevated to No.3 as Virat Kohli is not touring with the ODI side.

Rahul added the focus of the team will now shift to the two-Test series beginning in Centurion on December 26. Regular skipper Rohit Sharma and Kohli will be back in the side and Rahul will be the first-choice keeper.