Wicket‑Keeper Samson’s Unlikely Switch from Delhi to Kerala

Sanju Samson, celebrated for his decisive knocks in the 2026 T20 World Cup, revealed the lesser‑known story of his family’s hurried shift from Delhi to Kerala after a trial disappointment. As a schoolboy, Samson pursued a place in the Delhi state side, attending selection camps and putting up scores, but the highly competitive environment left him out of the final roster.

The moment the team list was released, Samson’s name was absent. Returning home, his father announced an immediate move: “We will relocate to Kerala within three days. Pack.” Although his mother wanted the boys to complete their schooling first, Vignathan booked tickets and the family departed by train for Kerala, where Samson earned a spot in the state side and began his climb up the cricket ladder.

Samson’s upbringing in G.T.B. Nagar’s police colony also shaped his love for the game. The colony’s streets, bordered by police quarters, became impromptu cricket grounds where youngsters set up stumps and used tennis balls. His father, a former footballer for the Delhi Police team, recognized his son’s talent early on and encouraged cricket over football.

A memorable incident involved a sudden practice session at the historic Arun Jaitley Stadium (formerly Feroz Shah Kotla). Leveraging his father’s duty post, the family secured a brief hour on the nets, allowing Samson, his brother, and their dad to bat in full white kit. Samson remarked that such a privilege would be difficult to obtain in today’s tightly regulated environment.

Looking back, Samson credits the forced move as the catalyst that turned a rejected trial into a flourishing international career, culminating in a World Cup triumph.