Kerala erupts in joy as new sporting icon rises in Sanju Samson

Kerala erupts in joy as new sporting icon rises in Sanju Samson

Mangalore Today News Network

Thiruvananthapuram, Mar 9, 2026: A small tale from Vizhinjam perfectly captures the influence of Samson Viswanath on his son, Sanju Samson. After his debut IPL season with the Rajasthan Royals, Sanju returned home with the aura of a star. Yet, the young cricketers who once played alongside him on the streets hesitated to approach him.

Sensing their unease, Viswanath, a former Delhi Police officer, encouraged his son to reconnect with his old friends. "Never go away from your roots," he advised. Those words stayed with Sanju through the highs and lows of his career.

Back to Basics, Back to Form

In the recently concluded T20 World Cup, where Sanju emerged as the tournament’s top scorer with 321 runs, staying grounded helped him regain his rhythm. His formative coach, Biju George, explained:

"The difference from earlier matches is that the stillness returned to his feet. A strong base has always been his strength, and now it shows in his batting."

This “back-to-basics” approach was evident in the semifinals against England. Facing Jofra Archer, a bowler known for intimidating short-pitched deliveries, Sanju pulled one over square leg for six, then sent the next into the second-tier stands at Wankhede Stadium. In just two shots, he dismissed doubts about his vulnerability to bouncers.

A Career-Defining World Cup

Sanju’s World Cup journey was a rollercoaster. Going into the knockouts, his place in the team was uncertain. Yet he produced crucial knocks of 97, 89, and 89 to guide India to a third T20 World Cup title — the first won at home.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir praised him:

"It takes character and courage to bounce back when your career is on the line. Sanju has shown he is a special talent, and hopefully, this is just the beginning."

A Father’s Steadfast Support

Before his resurgence, Sanju’s father sent a simple yet powerful message: “Do well for your country. Don’t let go of these chances. Play with an open mind.” Sanju heeded it, turning three consecutive fifties into a triumphant comeback.

Viswanath shared his pride:

"Now the whole country knows the talent of my son. We have waited for this moment, and I hope to see him soon at home with that medal around his neck."

Kerala’s New Sporting Icon

Kerala, a state with legends like PT Usha, Shiny Wilson, and IM Vijayan, had yet to produce a cricketing icon — until now. Sanju’s World Cup heroics have united fans across communities, earning admiration from politicians, film personalities, and everyday citizens alike.

Kerala Education Minister V Sivankutty posted a picture of Sanju captioned, “Nammude Payyan” (Our Boy). Congress leader Shashi Tharoor called him the “Thiruvananthapuram hero,” while filmmaker Basil Joseph shared a personal tribute on Instagram. Social media is flooded with fans dubbing him not just a “Chettaa” (elder brother) but a Cheetah, symbolizing his speed and prowess on the field.

Sanju Samson is no longer just a cricketer — he is Kerala’s pride and a national sporting icon.