IPL 2023: Sanju Samson’s name has long been inextricably linked to that of the Rajasthan Royals. Samson has played more games for the Rajasthan Royals than any other player in the Indian Premier League. Samson holds a record for most runs scored for Rajasthan in the IPL.
Furthermore, he is now second all-time in IPL captain appearances for RR, behind only the legendary Shane Warne. However, the current season is just his second with Rajasthan. Samson had previously played for Rajasthan before signing a two-year IPL deal with the Delhi club. He reflected on his initial contract with RR and how he had impressed the great Rahul Dravid.
Samson was one of the players nominated to KKR’s pool of prospects for the 2009 IPL season. Although he was signed by the team in 2012, he did not make his IPL debut until he was traded to Rajasthan Royals the following season.
Samson told Star Sports that his senior Kerala colleague and India cricketer Sreesanth took him to RR trials the year before he signed with the club.
IPL 2023: Sanju Samson narrates emotional tale of joining RR
In a two-day tryout, the India superstar said he gave a masterful performance under the careful eyes of Dravid and Paddy Upton. Dravid approached him thereafter, thrilled with his performance, and offered him a spot on RR’s team.
“Sreesanth took me to the RR trials. Dravid was there. Paddy Upton was there. I wasn’t expecting much from the trials because I did not know what kind of players they were looking for. It was a two-day trial which however was very special as I have never batted like that ever again. Then Rahul sir came and told me, “You are definitely doing great. Would you like to play for RR?” That gave me a huge confidence given that it came from Rahul sir. If a legend like him says, ‘I’m good enough’, then I am good enough,” he recalled.
Samson played for the team for three years before moving back to Rajasthan in 2018. He was promoted to captain in 2021 and led the squad to its first IPL final appearance since its 2008 championship season.
Samson played for the team for three years before moving back to Rajasthan in 2018. He was promoted to captain in 2021 and led the squad to its first IPL final appearance since its 2008 championship season.
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