Mumbai, India — Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson recently reflected on how the Indian Premier League (IPL) transformed his career, calling the tournament a turning point in his journey from domestic cricket in Kerala to becoming one of India’s most recognized T20 players.
Speaking during a panel conversation hosted by renowned commentator Harsha Bhogle, Samson shared how his IPL debut came at a time when he was still a young cricketer trying to establish himself.
From Kerala Cricket to IPL Opportunity
Samson revealed that before entering the IPL, he had only played a handful of domestic matches for Kerala. At the time, most of his experience came from Ranji Trophy and Under-19 games, many of which ended quickly due to one-sided results.
However, everything changed when he received an opportunity to attend trials with Rajasthan Royals.
“I was a young boy coming from Kerala after playing a few Ranji Trophy games. Then Rahul sir invited me for trials at Rajasthan Royals, and from there life completely changed,” Samson said.
Learning From International Stars
Samson explained that the IPL environment allowed him to grow both as a cricketer and as a person. Being surrounded by international stars and experienced coaches helped him understand the game at a much deeper level.
According to him, the exposure to world-class players accelerated his development.
“I upskilled my game and learned a lot from the players in the squad. It helped me develop not just as a player but also as a human being,” he added.
Debuting in the World’s Biggest T20 League
Samson made his IPL debut in 2013, becoming one of the youngest players to feature in the league at the time. His fearless batting and calm presence quickly caught the attention of fans and experts.
Over the years, he has played for both Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) before returning to lead the Royals.
A Career Built Through IPL Exposure
Samson credits the IPL for providing young Indian players with opportunities to compete at the highest level early in their careers. For him, the tournament served as a platform to refine his skills, gain confidence, and showcase his talent on the global stage.
Today, Samson is considered one of the key Indian batters in T20 cricket and continues to play a vital leadership role for Rajasthan Royals.
Looking Ahead to Another IPL Season
With another IPL season approaching, Samson remains focused on enjoying the game and contributing to his team.
Reflecting on his journey, he believes the IPL continues to shape the careers of young cricketers across India.
“IPL was truly a game changer in my life,” Samson said.
As the tournament prepares for another exciting season, Samson’s story remains an inspiring example of how the IPL can transform promising domestic players into international stars.
