Sanju Viswanath Samson, born on 11 November 1994, is a prominent figure in Indian cricket, known for his dynamic batting prowess and agile wicket-keeping skills. Hailing from Pulluvila, a coastal village near Vizhinjam in Kerala, Samson’s journey in cricket has been nothing short of inspirational.
Early Years and Domestic Domination
Samson’s tryst with cricket began early in his childhood, where he showcased exceptional talent from the grassroots level. His performances in junior cricket tournaments in Kerala caught the eye of selectors, leading to his inclusion in the Kerala U-13 team. Notably, he captained Kerala at various age levels, exhibiting leadership qualities from a young age.
His breakthrough came in the 2010-11 Cooch Behar Trophy, earning him a spot in the India U-19 team. Despite initial setbacks, Samson’s resilience shone through, leading to significant milestones, including vice-captaincy for the 2014 Under-19 Cricket World Cup.
Turning heads with his performances in domestic cricket, Samson made his mark in the Ranji Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy, showcasing his ability to excel in multi-day and limited-overs formats.
IPL Stardom and International Recognition
Samson’s entry into the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2013 marked the beginning of his journey to stardom. Representing Rajasthan Royals initially, and later Delhi Capitals, his aggressive batting style and safe glovework earned him accolades and a loyal fanbase.
Despite intermittent opportunities at the international level, Samson’s talent was undeniable. He made sporadic appearances for the Indian team, with notable contributions in T20Is and ODIs against Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, and others.
Captaincy and Consistency
In 2021, Samson was appointed captain of the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, a testament to his leadership qualities and cricketing acumen. Under his captaincy, the team exhibited resilience and determination, reaching the finals in 2022.
His consistent performances in domestic cricket and the IPL earned him a recall to the Indian team, where he capitalized on opportunities with match-winning innings and solid contributions.
Off the Field Contributions
Beyond the cricket field, Samson is involved in various philanthropic and entrepreneurial endeavors. He manages a sports academy, providing training to aspiring cricketers and footballers. Additionally, he serves as a brand ambassador for Kerala Blasters FC and actively engages in social causes.
Personal Life
Sanju Samson’s personal life reflects his grounded nature and commitment to family values. He tied the knot with his long-time girlfriend Charulatha Remesh in 2018, celebrating their union amidst friends and family.
Legacy and Future Prospects
As Samson continues to evolve as a cricketer and leader, his journey inspires millions of aspiring athletes across the country. With his blend of talent, determination, and humility, he remains a beacon of hope for the future of Indian cricket, poised to achieve greater heights in the years to come.
