From Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah To Sanju Samson: A Look At The Player Of The Tournament In T20 World Cups

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Sanju Samson was named the Player of the Tournament in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 after delivering a series of outstanding performances for the India national cricket team throughout the competition.

The stylish wicketkeeper-batter played a crucial role in India's successful campaign, consistently scoring important runs at the top of the order and providing stability in pressure situations. Samson impressed with his aggressive stroke play, quick scoring ability, and calm presence at the crease, helping India dominate several matches on their way to the final.

Samson featured in five matches of the T20 World Cup, amassing 321 runs. His highest score of 97 came in a crucial match against the , while he also registered two half-centuries, smashing 22 fours and 16 sixes during the campaign.

His performances were especially impactful during the knockout stages, where he delivered match-winning innings that helped India overcome strong opponents. Along with his batting contributions, Samson also made key impacts behind the stumps with sharp wicketkeeping.

With his remarkable consistency and ability to deliver in crucial moments, Sanju Samson's Player of the Tournament award became one of the standout highlights of India's triumphant run in the 2026 T20 World Cup, further cementing his place as one of the team's most valuable players in the tournament.

T20 World Cups: List Of Player Of The Tournament Winners From 2007 To 2026

The inaugural ICC Men's T20 World Cup in 2007 saw Shahid Afridi win the award after playing a key role in helping the Pakistan national cricket team reach the final. In 2009, Tillakaratne Dilshan dominated with the bat for the Sri Lanka national cricket team, finishing as the tournament's top run-scorer.

England's Kevin Pietersen earned the honour in 2010 with match-winning performances that helped the England national cricket team lift the trophy. In 2012, Australian all-rounder Shane Watson produced an exceptional campaign for the Australian national cricket team, contributing heavily with both bat and ball.

Indian superstar Virat Kohli made history by winning the award twice, in 2014 and 2016, for his remarkable consistency and ability to anchor innings for the India national cricket team. His back-to-back dominance remains one of the most notable achievements in the tournament.

In 2024, Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah was recognised for his match-winning spells throughout the tournament, while Sanju Samson won it in 2026.