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By Ishaan Kapoor — 27 July 2026 — 4 min read

Samson’s shift in mindset

Sanju Samson, who was named Player of the Tournament in the recent ICC T20 World Cup, has shared insights into the advice he received from Virat Kohli and his decision to step away from what he calls cricket’s “rat race.” Samson revealed that Kohli’s emphasis on lifestyle and discipline during an India camp left a significant impression on him. Kohli reportedly advised him on maintaining a specific lifestyle for an international cricketing career, focusing on recovery and discipline over a decade.

While Kohli’s words influenced his fitness approach, Samson stated that the most substantial change in his career occurred before the 2026 T20 World Cup. At that time, he found himself behind Ishan Kishan in the national team’s selection order. Instead of focusing on selection pressures, Samson decided to play on his own terms, aiming to enjoy the game rather than participate in a constant competitive struggle.

“I realised that there is a constant rat race in our country, and I decided before the 2026 T20 World Cup that I would not be part of it. I just want to enjoy the game,” Samson explained. He added, “I am 31 now, and I have a few years left. So, I have decided to play on my own terms. No one will tell me how to bat or what to do. Sanju will decide for Sanju.” This newfound freedom, he believes, helped him rediscover the joy of batting.

Key performances in the T20 World Cup

Samson’s decision to play on his own terms seemingly paid dividends during the ICC T20 World Cup, where he emerged as India’s highest run-scorer with 321 runs. He delivered successive half-centuries from a crucial match against the West Indies through to the final against New Zealand, contributing to India’s title victory.

One notable performance came in the semi-final against England, where he faced pacer Jofra Archer, a bowler who had dismissed him multiple times previously. Despite external reminders of his past struggles against Archer and a top order that was not consistently firing, Samson maintained his confidence. He recalled that many people were telling him about Archer’s past successes against him, but he remained resolute.

In that semi-final, Samson scored 38 runs off 14 balls against Archer, including three fours and four sixes. His overall innings of 89 runs off 42 balls helped India reach a total of 253/7. England ultimately fell seven runs short, despite a counter-attacking century from Jacob Bethell.

Samson attributed his confidence to a prior unbeaten knock of 97 runs against the West Indies in a virtual quarter-final. This innings, he stated, provided him with significant self-validation and eliminated doubt. “I knew that this Sanju Samson was not the Sanju Samson from a year ago. After that West Indies knock, I had a lot of self-validation, and I was very sure about myself. There was no room for doubt. I was going to do it for my country, and no one could stop it,” he said.

Responsibility and future outlook

During the final against New Zealand, Samson felt the weight of responsibility as the in-form batter. He continuously reminded himself to stay at the crease and finish the job for his country. He also reflected on how his confidence allowed him to be patient, even facing four dot balls in an over against Mitchell Santner in the final. He was confident that he could compensate with boundaries later in the innings, a mindset he credited to his performances against the West Indies and England.

Samson also acknowledged the contributions of his teammates, including Ishan Kishan and Jasprit Bumrah, whom he described as a “cheat code” for his crucial role in getting past England and providing a strong start in the final. He expressed happiness with his own contribution to the team’s success.

Looking ahead, Samson stated that he no longer focuses on long-term plans, even with another T20 World Cup scheduled for 2028. He mentioned that he did not expect to play in the 2026 World Cup after being out of the squad following the 2024 edition. He prefers to enjoy the game, be a good teammate, and support the group in his own way, believing that if he is needed and playing well, things will naturally fall into place. He remains grateful for his achievements, stating that no one can take away his T20 World Cup Player of the Tournament award.

Source: m.rediff.com