Full Name: Sanju Viswanath Samson
Date of Birth: November 11, 1994
Birthplace: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
Nationality: Indian
Profession: Cricketer (Wicketkeeper-Batsman)
Role: Wicketkeeper-Batsman
Batting Style: Right-handed
Bowling Style: Right-arm off-break
Teams: India, Kerala, Rajasthan Royals (RR), Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals)
Early Life and Background
Sanju Samson was born in a small coastal town in Kerala into a middle-class Malayali family. His father, Viswanath Samson, was a police officer in the Delhi Police and also played football at the state level. His mother, Lizie Samson, has always been a strong emotional support for him.
Sanju spent his early childhood in Delhi, where he studied at Rosary Senior Secondary School. He began his cricket training at the DLF Coaching Academy, where he was recognized for his natural timing and fearless batting style. Later, his family moved back to Kerala, and his cricket journey took off when he joined the Kerala Cricket Association Academy in Thiruvananthapuram.
Domestic Career
Sanju made his first-class debut for Kerala in the 2011–12 Ranji Trophy at the age of just 17. He made headlines with his elegant stroke play and his ability to build big innings under pressure.
In 2013, he became the youngest player to score a half-century in the Champions League T20, showing the world a glimpse of his immense potential. Over the years, he has been a consistent performer for Kerala in domestic cricket, both as a batsman and wicketkeeper.
IPL Journey: From Young Talent to Leader
Sanju Samson’s IPL journey is a story of hard work and resilience. He was first picked by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2012 but did not get a game. The turning point came when he joined Rajasthan Royals (RR) in 2013.
Under the mentorship of Rahul Dravid, Sanju made an instant impact with his clean hitting and maturity beyond his years. He soon became one of RR’s most reliable players. After a brief stint with Delhi Daredevils (2016–2017), he returned to RR in 2018.
In 2021, he was appointed captain of Rajasthan Royals, making him one of the youngest captains in IPL history. Under his leadership, RR reached the IPL 2022 Final, where they finished as runners-up.
International Career
Sanju Samson made his India debut in 2015 in a T20I against Zimbabwe. However, despite his talent, his journey with the national team has been inconsistent due to tough competition.
He made his ODI debut in 2021 against Sri Lanka and has since been part of India’s limited-overs setup. Known for his composure, power-hitting, and ability to finish games, Sanju continues to be seen as a future asset for India’s middle order.
Major Achievements
- IPL 2022: Led Rajasthan Royals to the final.
- First Kerala player to captain an IPL team.
- Youngest player to score 1000 runs in IPL.
- Over 3000 IPL runs with an average above 30 and a strike rate of around 140.
- Scored IPL century (102 vs SRH, 2021) and multiple match-winning fifties.
Personal Life
Sanju Samson married his college sweetheart Charulatha, a software engineer, in December 2018. The couple keeps their personal life low-key and often shares heartwarming moments on social media.
Sanju is deeply spiritual and grounded. He credits his family and faith for keeping him focused during both highs and lows in his career.
Playing Style and Strengths
Sanju Samson is known for his fearless batting, silky timing, and classical technique. Whether it’s lofting over covers or playing cheeky shots behind the wicket, his versatility makes him a modern-day T20 specialist.
He is also a sharp wicketkeeper, often saving crucial runs and pulling off lightning-fast stumpings.
Interesting Facts
- Idolizes Rahul Dravid and often calls him his greatest mentor.
- First cricketer from Kerala to play for India in T20Is.
- A huge football fan — supports Real Madrid.
- Loves reading and is known for his calm, philosophical personality.
Future Outlook
With his continued form in the IPL and domestic cricket, Sanju Samson remains a key contender for India’s white-ball team. His blend of maturity and aggression makes him one of the most balanced and respected young captains in Indian cricket today.
