Anil Kumble drew parallels between Sanju Samson’s stellar batting display during the 2026 T20 World Cup and the styles of cricketing legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Samson, a wicketkeeper-batter, was crowned Player of the Tournament, spearheading India to their third T20 World Cup championship with three consecutive half-centuries.
In the decisive final match, held on Sunday, March 8, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Samson was the standout performer, smashing 89 runs off just 46 deliveries, including five fours and eight sixes, against New Zealand.
Commending Samson’s exceptional form, Kumble highlighted how the 31-year-old skillfully blended cautious play when necessary, akin to Kohli’s approach, with aggressive hitting during the powerplay, reminiscent of Rohit Sharma.
Kumble elaborated on his comparison during an appearance, stating: “Looking back at the 2024 World Cup, we had Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma – both phenomenal players who are incredibly hard to replace. I believe Samson embodies a combination of their qualities. He shows that measured approach of Kohli, planning innings carefully to preserve wickets, and then, whenever acceleration is needed, particularly in the powerplay, he’s willing to aggressively challenge the bowlers, much like Rohit.”
Faf du Plessis on Samson: “A Guy That Is In Form”
Former South African captain Faf du Plessis also praised Samson, noting how the batsman, hailing from Pulluvila, consistently adhered to his game plan throughout the prestigious tournament.
Du Plessis remarked, “What’s evident is a player in peak form, genuinely committed to his preferred style of play. It feels like a repeat performance of his earlier innings; it’s simply his consistent game plan beautifully executed.”
Beyond Samson’s heroics, Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan also contributed with explosive half-centuries in the final. Shivam Dube added a crucial cameo towards the end, propelling India to a formidable total of 255/5. In their chase, New Zealand crumbled, managing only 159 runs in 19 overs and succumbing to a 96-run defeat. Jasprit Bumrah shone with the ball, claiming an impressive four-wicket haul.
