• Sportzyverse
• IPL 2024
• 05/06/2024
• 0 Comments

Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson has shared a lesser-known story about his journey to the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the pivotal role played by a chance encounter involving S Sreesanth and Rahul Dravid. The revelation, told by Samson himself, provides a fascinating insight into how a seemingly fabricated tale paved the way for his entry into professional cricket.

A Chance Encounter and a Lie

Sanju Samson, the experienced campaigner and captain of the Rajasthan Royals, shared his story in a viral video widely circulated on Twitter. He recounted how Sreesanth, a former Indian cricketer, intervened on his behalf during his early IPL days with the Kolkata Knight Riders. Despite being part of KKR’s squad since 2009, Samson struggled to secure a place in the playing XI.

In the video, Samson detailed Sreesanth’s crucial role in his career. “It was during a match against the Rajasthan Royals when Sreesanth spotted Rahul Dravid in the hotel lobby,” Samson explained. “Sreesanth vouched for me, saying, ‘There’s this kid from Kerala who smashed six sixes in an over in a local tournament. We should definitely give him a trial.'”

Was in KKR but couldn't get games, Sreeshanth was in RR & when we had a game with RR where Dravid was their skipper, Sreeshanth stopped Dravid in the hotel & told him, this kid is from kerala, he has hit 6 sixes in an over in a local tourney, we should give him a trial & sanju is… pic.twitter.com/PaxWLb1C90

— arfan (@Im__Arfan) May 5, 2024

Sreesanth’s enthusiastic endorsement caught Dravid’s attention, even though the claim sounded too good to be true. Despite initial scepticism, the legendary cricketer and then-captain of the Rajasthan Royals agreed to give Samson a trial, recognizing his potential.

“Rahul bhai listened to me when I introduced Sanju to him,” Sreesanth admitted in an interview with Sportskeeda last year. “He didn’t do too well in a few practice games. But when Rahul bhai saw him bat, he was convinced.”

Also read Sanju Samson Celebrates Selection in India’s T20 World Cup Squad with Heartfelt Message

A Breakthrough Opportunity

Dravid’s confidence in Samson’s abilities led to the young player’s IPL debut with the Rajasthan Royals in 2013. Since then, Samson has become a mainstay in the franchise and eventually its captain. His journey from a promising talent to a respected team leader exemplifies the determination and resilience required to thrive at the highest levels of cricket.

Samson’s story is a testament to the importance of seizing opportunities, even from unexpected sources. His experience also underscores the role of mentorship and belief in nurturing young talent. The connection between Sreesanth and Dravid was a turning point for Samson, setting him on a path to IPL success and ultimately a leadership role.

As Samson continues to make strides in his career, his journey remains an inspiration for aspiring cricketers. It highlights the impact of perseverance and the value of support from experienced players and mentors.