Sanju Samson’s journey in international cricket is a tale of resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of trust from a mentor. Often hailed as one of India’s most talented wicketkeeper-batters, Samson’s career trajectory has been anything but linear. His story is one of early promise, prolonged struggles, and an eventual resurgence fueled by a pivotal conversation with Gautam Gambhir, India’s head coach, whose unwavering belief in him turned the tide. This article delves into Samson’s roller-coaster career, the challenges he faced, and how Gambhir’s bold assurance—“I won’t drop you even if you score 21 ducks”—became the catalyst for a remarkable turnaround.
The Early Promise of Sanju Samson
Sanju Samson burst onto the cricketing scene as a prodigious talent from Kerala, a state not traditionally known for producing cricketing superstars. At the age of 20, he made his international debut for India in a T20I against Zimbabwe in 2015. His elegant stroke play, quick hands, and ability to dominate bowlers in domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL) marked him as a future star. As a wicketkeeper-batter, comparisons with the likes of MS Dhoni were inevitable, and expectations soared.
However, Samson’s early international career was marred by inconsistency and limited opportunities. Despite his undeniable talent, he found himself in and out of the Indian team, unable to secure a consistent run to showcase his potential. Between 2015 and 2024, Samson played only sporadically, often warming the bench or being overlooked for other contenders like Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, and Dinesh Karthik. The lack of game time at the international level tested his patience and mental fortitude.
Even during the 2024 T20 World Cup, where Samson was included in India’s squad, he remained an unused substitute throughout the tournament. For a player of his caliber, watching from the sidelines while his peers lifted the trophy was a bitter pill to swallow. Yet, it was this phase of adversity that set the stage for a remarkable transformation in his career.
The Turning Point: Gautam Gambhir’s Arrival
The appointment of Gautam Gambhir as India’s head coach in 2024, following Rahul Dravid’s successful tenure, marked a significant shift in Samson’s fortunes. Known for his aggressive leadership and no-nonsense approach, Gambhir brought a fresh perspective to the Indian team. His stint as a mentor with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL had already showcased his ability to nurture talent and instill confidence in players. For Samson, Gambhir’s arrival was a game-changer.
Samson’s struggles in the Indian team were not due to a lack of ability but rather a lack of consistent opportunities. The constant shuffling in and out of the squad created a sense of uncertainty, making it difficult for him to settle into a rhythm. Gambhir, however, saw the potential that had long been evident in domestic circuits and the IPL, where Samson had consistently delivered match-winning performances as captain of the Rajasthan Royals (RR).
In a candid conversation with Ravichandran Ashwin on his YouTube channel, Samson recounted the pivotal moment that changed his outlook. After a string of low scores, including two ducks in as many games as an opener in Sri Lanka, Samson feared he had squandered yet another opportunity. It was then that Gambhir approached him with a message that would redefine his career: “Even if you scored 21 ducks, I won’t drop you from my team.”
These words were not just a show of faith but a powerful statement of intent. Gambhir’s assurance gave Samson the security and confidence he had been craving throughout his career. “That confidence raised my spirits, and I really felt safe, which helped me to score runs after that,” Samson recalled. This unwavering support from his coach allowed him to play with freedom, unburdened by the fear of failure.
The Resurgence: A Stellar 2024-25 Season
The impact of Gambhir’s faith was immediate and profound. In the 18 T20I matches Samson played for India across 2024 and 2025, he emerged as a linchpin in the batting lineup. His transformation was nothing short of spectacular, as he notched up three centuries and a fifty, including twin hundreds in South Africa. These performances were a testament to his talent and the newfound belief that he could thrive at the international level.
Samson’s success as an opener, a role assigned to him by India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav, was particularly noteworthy. Despite the initial setbacks in Sri Lanka, where he failed to convert starts, Samson bounced back with a vengeance. His ability to take on bowlers from the outset, combined with his natural flair and adaptability, made him a formidable force at the top of the order. The twin centuries in South Africa, in particular, showcased his ability to dominate quality bowling attacks on challenging pitches.
What set Samson apart during this phase was not just his technical prowess but his mental resilience. Years of being in and out of the team had taught him to stay positive and focus on the next opportunity. “I always tried to keep myself in a positive frame of mind,” Samson said, reflecting on the challenging years leading up to his resurgence. This mindset, coupled with Gambhir’s backing, allowed him to channel his energies and deliver consistent performances.
The Mental Shift: Learning from Adversity
Samson’s journey is a case study in the importance of mental fortitude in professional sports. During his time away from the Indian team, he underwent a period of introspection that reshaped his perspective on life and cricket. “It was easy to put that opportunity will come, and on someone’s shoulders,” he admitted. As a young player, he had initially been content with the fact that he had represented India, but he soon realized that merely playing a handful of games was not enough.
The five-year gap between his early international appearances and his eventual return in 2024 was a period of growth, both physically and mentally. Samson spoke about how he kept asking himself, “What’s next?” This question became a driving force, pushing him to work harder, refine his skills, and prepare for the next opportunity. His time in domestic cricket and the IPL, where he led Rajasthan Royals with distinction, helped him mature as a cricketer and a leader.
Samson’s ability to stay grounded during this period was remarkable. While the lack of opportunities could have led to frustration or self-doubt, he chose to focus on self-improvement. “I kept thinking, ‘What next?’” he said, highlighting how this mindset helped him navigate the uncertainties of his career. This approach not only kept him motivated but also prepared him to seize the opportunity when it finally arrived.
The Role of Leadership: Gambhir and Suryakumar’s Influence
The transformation in Samson’s career cannot be attributed solely to his own efforts. The roles played by Gautam Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav were instrumental in unlocking his potential. Suryakumar, as India’s T20I captain, recognized Samson’s ability to dominate as an opener and communicated his intent to give him an extended run in that role. This clarity of role was crucial for Samson, who had often been shuffled around in the batting order in his earlier stints.
Gambhir’s influence, however, was the defining factor. His reputation as a tough but fair coach preceded him, and his ability to back players unconditionally was evident in his handling of Samson. By assuring him that failure would not lead to exclusion, Gambhir created an environment where Samson could express himself without fear. This psychological safety net allowed Samson to play with the same freedom and flair that had made him a standout performer in the IPL.
Gambhir’s philosophy of backing talent over immediate results is a lesson in leadership. In a high-pressure environment like international cricket, where players are often judged on a game-by-game basis, his approach provided Samson with the stability he needed to thrive. This trust translated into runs, and Samson’s performances in 2024-25 justified Gambhir’s faith.
The Broader Impact: Inspiring the Next Generation
Sanju Samson’s story is not just about personal triumph but also about the broader implications for Indian cricket. His resurgence serves as an inspiration for young cricketers who face similar challenges in breaking into a highly competitive team. India’s depth in talent means that many players, despite their potential, struggle to secure a permanent spot in the squad. Samson’s journey shows that perseverance, coupled with the right support, can lead to remarkable outcomes.
Moreover, Samson’s success highlights the importance of strong leadership in nurturing talent. Gambhir’s bold approach to coaching—backing players through thick and thin—sets a precedent for how coaches can unlock the potential of their players. His message to Samson, “I won’t drop you even if you score 21 ducks,” is a powerful reminder that confidence and trust can be transformative in high-stakes environments.
Looking Ahead: Samson’s Role in Indian Cricket
As of August 2025, Sanju Samson is no longer the precocious talent waiting for his chance but a key cog in India’s T20I setup. His performances in 2024 and 2025 have cemented his place as a reliable opener, and with Gambhir at the helm, he is likely to play a significant role in India’s future campaigns. The T20 World Cup in 2026 looms large, and Samson’s form suggests he could be a pivotal figure in India’s quest for another title.
Beyond his batting, Samson’s leadership qualities, honed during his time with Rajasthan Royals, add another dimension to his value. His calm demeanor and ability to handle pressure make him a potential candidate for greater responsibilities within the Indian team. Whether as a captain or a senior player, Samson’s journey from the fringes to the forefront of Indian cricket is a testament to his resilience and talent.
In Summary
Sanju Samson’s career is a story of redemption, perseverance, and the transformative power of trust. Gautam Gambhir’s unwavering belief in him, encapsulated in the now-iconic words, “I won’t drop you even if you score 21 ducks,” gave Samson the confidence to rediscover his best form. From a talented but inconsistent youngster to a prolific run-scorer in international cricket, Samson’s journey is a reminder that talent, when backed by faith and opportunity, can achieve greatness. As he continues to shine on the global stage, Samson’s story will inspire countless others to keep pushing forward, no matter how turbulent the ride.
