Virat Kohli calls Sanju Samson ‘most deserving’ Player of the Tournament after India’s World Cup win

Former India captain Virat Kohli praised Sanju Samson after the wicketkeeper-batter was named Player of the Tournament in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, applauding his ability to deliver in crucial moments during India’s title-winning campaign.

Taking to Instagram shortly after India’s triumph over New Zealand national cricket team in the final, Kohli shared a congratulatory message for Samson, calling him the “most well deserved man of the tournament”.

“What a remarkable tournament from the most well deserved man of the tournament @imsanjusamson. You performed when it mattered the most. Really happy for you chetta,” Kohli wrote in his Instagram story.

Samson played a key role throughout the tournament and finished as one of India’s most consistent performers. His contributions in crucial matches helped India maintain momentum during the knockout stages, eventually leading to the team lifting the trophy.

With Samson winning the award in 2026, he joined an elite list of Indian cricketers who have been named Player of the Tournament in the T20 World Cup. Kohli himself achieved the feat twice — first in 2014 and again in 2016 — underlining his dominance during those editions of the tournament.

More recently, India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah earned the honour during India’s victorious campaign in the 2024 T20 World Cup, thanks to a series of match-defining performances with the ball.

Samson’s recognition in 2026 adds another chapter to India’s strong record in the competition, highlighting the team’s ability to produce standout performers on the global stage. Kohli’s message also reflected the respect Samson has earned within the Indian dressing room after his impressive run throughout the tournament.

With the award, Samson now joins Kohli and Bumrah as the only Indian players to be named Player of the Tournament in the history of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.