Star India batter Virat Kohli shared a heartfelt message for Sanju Samson following the wicketkeeper-batter’s remarkable performance in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cupwhere he was named Player of the Tournament after India’s title-winning campaign.
India secured a historic 96-run victory over New Zealand in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadiumclinching their third T20 World Cup title and becoming the first nation to win the tournament at home.
Kohli praises Samson’s match-winning performances
Taking to Instagram, Kohli congratulated Samson and acknowledged his crucial role in India’s triumph.
“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 on his Instagram story.
Samson’s consistency and fearless batting throughout the tournament played a decisive role in India’s successful campaign.
Samson joins elite Indian list
With this award, Samson became the third Indian cricketer to win the Player of the Tournament honourafter Virat Kohli (2014, 2016) and Jasprit Bumrah (2024).
Despite featuring in only five of India’s nine matchesSamson finished as the team’s highest run-scoreramassing 321 runs at an impressive average of 80.25 and a strike rate of 199.37.
His aggressive batting approach and ability to deliver under pressure proved vital during the knockout stages.
Turning point in India’s campaign
Interestingly, Samson was not part of India’s initial playing XI due to inconsistent form leading up to the tournament.
He was first included for the second group match against Namibia after Abhishek Sharma was sidelined due to health issues. Samson scored a quick 22 off 8 ballsbut was dropped again once Abhishek recovered.
His real comeback came during the Super 8 clash against Zimbabwewhen India’s left-handed opening pair struggled against off-spin in the powerplay. Samson made an immediate impact with a brisk 24 off 15 ballshelping stabilise the start.
Match-winning knocks in knockout stages
Samson’s defining moment arrived in the must-win match against the West Indieswhere he scored a sensational 97 off 50 balls*. The knock powered India to their highest-ever chase in T20 World Cup history — 196 runssecuring a semi-final berth.
He followed it up with another outstanding innings of 89 off 42 balls in the semi-final against Englandhelping India post 253/7the highest total in T20 World Cup knockout history.
In the final against New ZealandSamson delivered once again, scoring 89 off 46 balls as India posted 255/5setting up the dominant victory.
His consistent performances made him one of the few players in T20 World Cup history to score half-centuries in both the semi-final and final of the same editionsealing his place as the tournament’s standout performer.
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