Cricket careers are rarely straight lines and Sanju Samson’s journey with the Indian team proves that more than most. From the outside, his talent has always been obvious. Elegant shots, quick hands behind the stumps and the ability to change games in a few overs marked him as someone special. Yet, for years, certainty remained out of reach.
Sanju Samson made his India debut in 2015 but regular opportunities never followed. In nearly a decade, his appearances in international cricket have been limited, a reflection of how difficult it is to break into a team filled with established stars. Competing for the same wicketkeeper-batter role as several big names and struggling to maintain consistency at the highest level meant he was often on the fringes, never fully sure when the next chance would come. That constant state of waiting took its toll and left him frustrated at times. Recently he opened up on his journey in a video posted by the BCCI.
For much of his international career, Sanju Samson was asked to bat in the middle order. He tried to adapt, played the team role and waited patiently. The turning point came when he was promoted to open the batting in T20 internationals. With freedom to play his natural game and more time at the crease, Sanju Samson finally showed his full potential. Scoring three centuries in just five innings changed the conversation around him and gave him a sense of belonging he had long been searching for.
Just when things seemed settled, uncertainty returned. The comeback of Shubman Gill led to another reshuffle and Sanju Samson once again found himself pushed down the order during the Asia Cup. But cricket, as always, opened another door. When Shubman Gill didn’t give good performances at the top, Sanju Samson was given the opening role again, reminding him that in this sport, opportunities can disappear and reappear just as quickly.
The 2024 T20 World Cup was another emotional chapter. Despite being part of the squad, Sanju Samson did not get a single game. While it was not what he had hoped for, he chose to look at the bigger picture. Simply making the squad felt meaningful, especially given how unpredictable his career had been. He understood that for him, every call-up carried value.
To cope with the pressure and constant chatter surrounding Indian cricket, Sanju Samson learned to create his own space. He blocked out external noise, leaned on people he trusted and focused on improving small aspects of his game. That inner bubble helped him stay grounded during difficult phases and prepared him mentally for the next opportunity.
Even the transition from middle-order batter to opener was unexpected. What began as a sudden change turned into a defining phase of his career, showing how readiness can turn chance into success. Through all the ups and downs, Sanju Samson has held on to one feeling that keeps him motivated.
After nearly ten years of international cricket, he still feels a sense of pride every time he puts on the India jersey. That emotion, he believes, makes the long waits, disappointments and uncertainty worthwhile and reminds him just how special the journey has been.
