Sanju Samson Credits Sachin Tendulkar’s Guidance After Winning T20 World Cup 2026 Player of the Tournament

Add as a preferred source on Google

Ahmedabad, March 8: India's star batter Sanju Samson revealed that conversations with cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar played a key role in his remarkable turnaround during the T20 World Cup 2026, where he was named Player of the Tournament.

Speaking after India's title-winning campaign at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday (March 8), Samson described the achievement as a surreal moment following years of persistence and self-belief.

"It feels like a dream. Very happy and grateful. I am out of words and out of emotions," Samson said after receiving the prestigious award.

A Journey Built on Visualisation and Patience

Samson explained that his transformation as a match-winner in the tournament was the result of a process that began years earlier.

"To be honest, it started one or two years before. When I was in the 2024 World Cup team where I didn't play, I kept visualising and working hard. This was exactly what I wanted to do," he said.

Despite being part of the squad earlier, Samson had to wait patiently for his opportunity. Instead of being discouraged, he used the time to refine his game and mentally prepare for the moment when it arrived.

Setbacks Before the Breakthrough

The wicketkeeper-batter admitted that he experienced a difficult phase after India's tour of New Zealand, which briefly left him questioning his dreams.

"After the New Zealand series I was broken. My dreams were completely shattered and I was thinking about what I could do next," Samson revealed.

However, he believes that perseverance and belief eventually turned things around.

"But God had different plans. I was rewarded for being brave enough to dream," he added.

Sachin Tendulkar's Mentorship

One of the most significant influences in Samson's journey was the guidance he received from Sachin Tendulkar.

Samson revealed that he had been in regular contact with the legendary batter in the months leading up to the World Cup.

"For the last couple of months, I have been in constant contact with Sachin sir. I reached out to him and had big conversations with him," Samson said.

Receiving advice from one of cricket's greatest icons proved invaluable.

"Getting guidance from someone like him - what more can you ask for? I am very grateful for everyone who supported me," he said.

Living the Moment After Historic Campaign

Samson finished the tournament with several crucial performances, including three half-centuries in the knockout stages, playing a decisive role in India's successful title defence.

Despite the extraordinary achievement, Samson said he is not thinking too far ahead.

"This itself is very big for me. I want to enjoy it right now and after a few days I will figure out what more I want to do," he said.

For Samson, the moment represents the fulfilment of years of preparation, resilience and belief - guided along the way by the wisdom of one of the game's greatest legends.