In the glittering world of cricket, where legends are made and forgotten with every passing season, there’s a tale that often goes untold, overshadowed by the more prominent narratives of cricketing glory. This is the story of Sanju Samson, a name that resonates with promise and potential in the Indian cricketing fraternity, who, in his nascent days, was part of a historic IPL victory. Under the captaincy of the fiery Gautam Gambhir, Sanju Samson, though not a headline-maker then, was a part of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad that clinched the IPL title in 2012.
Sanju Samson’s journey with KKR in 2012 was more of a silent observer’s role rather than a protagonist’s. Yet, his presence in the squad that year marked the beginning of a journey that would see him rise through the ranks to become one of the most stylish and sought-after cricketers in the IPL. The 2012 IPL final, where KKR faced off against the mighty Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the iconic Chepauk Stadium, was not just a battle for the title but a testament to Gambhir’s leadership and the team’s collective spirit.
Gautam Gambhir, known for his aggressive captaincy and never-say-die attitude, led KKR from the front, scoring 590 runs in the season, a performance that underlined his captaincy credentials. However, the victory was a team effort, with every member contributing in their way, including the young Samson, who, despite not playing a match, was an integral part of the squad’s dynamic. His journey with KKR, though brief, was a stepping stone, a learning curve under one of India’s most successful IPL captains.
Fast forward to the present, and Samson has carved a niche for himself in the IPL, leading the Rajasthan Royals and showcasing his batting prowess. His selection in the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2024, underlines his growth from that young, wide-eyed cricketer in 2012 to a seasoned player expected to deliver under pressure. Gambhir’s recent comments on Sanju Samson, urging him to “start winning games for India,” reflect not just a coach’s expectation but also a mentor’s belief in the potential he saw in Samson back in 2012.
The 2012 IPL victory was special for many reasons, not least because it was KKR’s maiden title, breaking the dominance of CSK, who were aiming for a hat-trick. For Samson, it was a lesson in resilience, team spirit, and the importance of every role, no matter how small it might seem. His journey from being a part of the winning squad to leading his own team in the IPL showcases the evolution of a cricketer who has learned to handle the pressure, much like his former captain Gambhir.
A forgotten tale of Sanju Samson and KKR
The tale of Sanju Samson’s IPL title win with KKR in 2012 might not be as celebrated as his current exploits, but it’s a chapter that adds depth to his cricketing narrative. It’s a reminder that every journey has its beginnings, often in the shadows of giants, waiting for the moment to step into the light. For Sanju Samson, that journey continues, with the world watching, hoping to see the fulfilment of the promise he showed under Gambhir’s captaincy over a decade ago. As he steps onto the international stage with greater responsibilities, the echoes of that 2012 victory might just be the whisper of encouragement he needs to roar like a lion.
