One of India’s most legendary cricketers and a former World Cup winner, Sunil Gavaskar, has marked a startling resemblance between Indian superstar Sanju Samson and West Indian legend Sir Vivian Richards.

Sanju Samson helped India seal a victory in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Though everyone made their contributions, which made it a famous victory, had it not been for Samson, India would not have made it to the semi-finals and, secondly, would not have been able to put 250+ runs on the board in the semi-finals and the final.

This was something that Sir Viv Richards, one of the greatest ever cricketers in the world, had done for a long time for his national side. He not only won games for them but also made the opposition tremble out of fear whenever they saw him coming out with the willow.

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Reminiscent of Viv Richards at his powerful best-Sunil Gavaskar

Former Indian great Sunil Gavaskar praised Sanju Samson for his extraordinary outing in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. He heaped praise on the Kerala star who helped India clinch their consecutive title in the shortest format of the game.

Talking about his explosive batting in the T20 World Cup, where he scored runs with a strike rate of 199.37, Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar that his strokeplay, especially the pull shot, reminded him of West Indian legend Vivian Richards.

“His pulling off the fierce pace of Jofra Archer was reminiscent of Viv Richards at his powerful best, though most of his batting is more like the Sri Lankan stylist Mahela Jayawardene,” noted Sunil Gavaskar.

Gavaskar praised Sanju Samson for playing quality cricketing shots in T20Is

Gavaskar continued, saying the purity of batting is not something in common with the modern batters, especially in the shortest format of the game, but Samson showed how runs can be scored through orthodox ways. This was quite similar to India’s very own Virat Kohli, though.

“Purity of batting is generally a virtue in the longest format of the game, Test match cricket, and occasionally in the 50-over game, but hardly ever in the ultra-short format of the game,” wrote Gavaskar.

“Samson provided that in all his three fifty-plus innings in playing classical cricket shots, along with some of the most imperious pulling and hooking seen in recent times,” he continued.

Both openers…justified the trust show- Sunil Gavaskar

India not only backed Sanju Samson by making him return to the Indian side, but also backed Abhishek Sharma despite the left-hander struggling with very poor form.

However, the southpaw returned to good form in the final and returned the faith with a quickfire half-century that gave India the perfect start with 98 runs off 43 balls for the first wicket.

“In the final, Abhishek Sharma came good with the quickest half-century in the T20 World Cup. Both the openers had, with their performances when it mattered most, justified the trust shown in them by the team’s brains trust,” said Gavaskar (via the aforementioned source).

ALSO READ: Ex-India star launches brutal attack on Suryakumar Yadav and Gautam Gambhir for mishandling Sanju Samson

The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad was a sea of blue on Sunday as India etched their name into the history books, successfully defending their crown in the T20 World Cup 2026 final. The Men in Blue delivered a masterclass, dismantling New Zealand by 96 runs to remain the undisputed kings of the shortest format. However, while the fireworks lit up the Gujarat sky, a different kind of spark was flying on social media.

In the VIP stands, the sight of MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma, the two architects of India’s previous T20 world titles sent fans into a frenzy. Yet, the ‘Trio of Titans’ felt incomplete. The absence of Virat Kohli, the man who arguably carried Indian T20 batting on his back for over a decade, left a void that had fans and pundits alike asking, Where was King Kohli?

Why Virat Kohli skipped the T20 World Cup 2026 Final?

While the stadium buzzed with the presence of ‘Captain Cool’ and ‘The Hitman,’ Kohli’s seat remained empty. Despite the swirling rumours of a rift or a snub, the reality is far more grounded in logic and personal philosophy. Here are the three primary reasons behind his absence:

• Lack of official ‘Title-Winning Captain’ status: The ICC and BCCI often extend special invites to former winning captains for landmark finals. Dhoni (2007) and Rohit (2024) were present in an official capacity to celebrate the legacy of Indian leadership in this tournament. Since Kohli never lifted the T20 World Cup trophy as a captain, he lacked the specific official protocol commitment that brought Dhoni and Rohit to the venue.
• The “Gone when I’m done” philosophy: Kohli has been vocal about his post-career invisibility. He famously stated, “Once I am done, I will be gone, you won’t see me for a while.” Having retired from the T20I format after the 2024 glory, Kohli is strictly adhering to his desire for privacy. For him, being a spectator in a high-octane stadium isn’t the preferred way to celebrate; he chose the quietude of home over the glare of the VIP box.
• Prioritizing family time: With a reduced international schedule after stepping away from T20Is, Kohli has pivoted his life toward his family. Reliable sources suggest that Virat preferred to witness India’s historic defence of the title from the comfort of his home with Anushka Sharma and their children. For a man who lived under a microscope for 15 years, the chance to be a “fan in the living room” outweighed the lure of a stadium appearance.

Also READ: ICC announces T20 World Cup 2026 Team of the Tournament, Aiden Markram to lead

India reigns supreme after winning back to back T20 World Cup title wins

While the subplots in the stands were intriguing, the action on the pitch was clinical. India’s 96-run victory over New Zealand wasn’t just a win; it was a statement of T20I dominance. Batting first, the Indian top order capitalized on a true surface, setting a mammoth target that left the Kiwis gasping for air.

The Indian bowling attack, spearheaded by a relentless pace battery and crafty wrist-spin, never allowed the Black Caps to settle. As the final wicket fell, the celebrations in Ahmedabad mirrored the scenes from Barbados two years prior. India have now officially transitioned from a team that chokes in knockouts to a ruthless dynasty. Even without Kohli in the stands, his legacy of fitness and intensity was visible in every diving stop and every sprint between the wickets, proving that while the King might be absent, his DNA remains embedded in the team’s winning culture.

Also READ: Complete list of T20 World Cup Player of the Tournament winners ft. Sanju Samson

The streets of Patna erupted in celebration as local hero Ishan Kishan returned home following India’s historic T20 World Cup 2026 triumph. However, the festive atmosphere at Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport was briefly interrupted by questions regarding a growing social media storm. Former cricketer and politician Kirti Azad recently sparked a national debate by questioning the Indian team’s decision to take the World Cup trophy to a temple, a move Kishan handled with the same composure he showed against world-class bowlers during the tournament.

Ishan Kishan responds to Kirti Azad’s criticism over Indian team’s temple visit

The controversy began when India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and former BCCI Secretary and ICC Jay Shah visited a Hanuman temple in Ahmedabad to offer prayers with the silverware. Azad took to social media to express his reservations, noting that the victory belongs to “1.4 billion Indians of every faith” and suggesting that sports should remain transcendent of specific religious practices.

SHAME ON TEAM INDIA! 😡

When we won the World Cup under Kapil Dev in 1983, we had Hindu Muslim Sikh and Christian in the team.

We brought the trophy to our religious birth place our motherland India Bharat Hindustan

Why The Hell Is The Indian Cricket Trophy is being Dragged.…

— Kirti Azad (@KirtiAzaad) March 9, 2026

When pressed by journalists for his take on these comments, Kishan remained unfazed, refusing to let the negativity overshadow the nation’s sporting achievement.

“I have just won such a wonderful World Cup, please ask better questions, what can I say about what Kirti Azad said? Please ask some good questions. Tell me how it feels and how much fun it was,” Kishan told the media with a polite but firm smile. By shifting the narrative back to the collective joy of the win, Kishan effectively neutralized the attempt to politicize the team’s personal moments of gratitude.

Here’s the video:

#WATCH | Patna, Bihar | On India’s ICCT20WorldCup2026 win, Indian cricketer Ishan Kishan says, “It is a great thing for the entire nation and we hope that we play and win the same way in the future as well… I try that more players get inspired to advance ahead…”

On former… pic.twitter.com/MfBmqyvMfY

— ANI (@ANI) March 10, 2026

Also READ: Complete list of T20 World Cup Player of the Tournament winners ft. Sanju Samson

Ishan Kishan’s role in India’s dominant campaign in T20 World Cup 2026

While the off-field chatter continues, Kishan’s on-field statistics from the 2026 campaign tell the story of a player who has truly come of age. The left-handed wicketkeeper-batter was the engine room of India’s aggressive new-age T20 blueprint. Over the course of nine matches, Kishan amassed 317 runs at an impressive average of 35.22. What stood out most, however, was his staggering strike rate of 193.29, which consistently put opposition bowlers on the back foot during the powerplay.

Kishan’s tournament was defined by his ability to perform in high-stakes encounters. His masterclass against Pakistan at the R. Premadasa Stadium, a blistering 77, set the tone for a massive 61-run victory that shifted the momentum in India’s favour during the group stages. He proved that he wasn’t just a flat-track bully but a reliable big-match player capable of anchoring an innings while maintaining a high scoring rate.

The pinnacle of his performance arrived in the grand finale against New Zealand. Facing a disciplined Kiwi attack, Kishan smashed 54 runs off just 25 balls. This explosive cameo was the catalyst that propelled India to a record-breaking total of 255/5, the highest ever recorded in a Men’s T20 World Cup final. As the celebrations continue across the country, it is this clinical batting display, rather than social media debates, that fans will remember for years to come.

Also WATCH: Sanju Samson receives grand welcome at Thiruvananthapuram airport after stellar T20 World Cup 2026 show

Punjab Kings (PBKS) are gearing up for another strong campaign in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, and former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar has already shared his vision for the team’s ideal playing XI. The former batting coach of the Indian team believes PBKS possess a balanced squad capable of competing for the playoffs this season, even if they begin matches with only three overseas players in the starting lineup.

PBKS finished as runners-up in IPL 2025 after falling short in the final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Despite the heartbreak, the franchise has retained the core of its squad and made a few strategic additions at the IPL 2026 auction to strengthen the team further.

Punjab Kings retain core and add reinforcements at the auction

Ahead of the IPL 2026 season, Punjab Kings retained as many as 21 players, signaling their confidence in the squad that performed impressively last year. During the auction, they added Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Pravin Dubey and Vishal Nishad to enhance their bench strength.

Bangar feels the team’s stability and depth give them flexibility when it comes to team combinations. According to him, the presence of quality Indian players allows PBKS to rely less heavily on overseas cricketers while still maintaining a strong lineup.

Speaking during a discussion on Star Sports, Bangar expressed confidence in the squad’s overall balance and ability to perform consistently throughout the season.

“I have full belief that they are a very strong contender to reach the playoffs. This squad has so much ability that they can enter the ground with three overseas as a playing XI,” Bangar said.

Also READ: Gujarat Titans appoint new batting coach ahead of IPL 2026

Sanjay Bangar’s preferred lineup for PBKS

Bangar outlined a batting order that blends aggressive young talent with experienced campaigners. He suggested that Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya should open the innings, providing an attacking start at the top of the order.

Shreyas Iyer, who is expected to lead the side, slots in at number three to anchor the innings. Nehal Wadhera follows at number four, while Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis provides power in the middle order at number five. Shashank Singh, who impressed with his finishing abilities last season, takes the number six spot in Bangar’s lineup.

“If I talk about the batting order, Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer at No. 3, Nehal Wadhera at No. 4, Marcus Stoinis at No. 5, and then Shashank Singh at No. 6,” Bangar explained.

Bangar also emphasized the strength of Punjab Kings’ bowling department. He placed South African all-rounder Marco Jansen wwat number seven, followed by spin-bowling all-rounder Harpreet Brar.

Veteran leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal leads the spin attack, while Lockie Ferguson adds pace and aggression with the new ball and at the death. Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh completes the bowling unit, bringing experience and consistency.

Bangar also pointed out that the team can strengthen its bowling further by including an additional overseas fast bowler depending on conditions. Alternatively, Afghan all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai could be introduced to add balance to the side.

Sanjay Bangar’s PBKS playing XI for IPL 2026: Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer, Nehal Wadhera, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Lockie Ferguson, Arshdeep Singh

Also READ: Yellove reloaded: CSK unveil striking new jersey for IPL 2026 in grand style

The schedule for the much-anticipated 2026 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to be unveiled soon, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirming that the first phase of fixtures will be announced by March 12. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia revealed that only the initial 20 days of the tournament schedule will be released first, while the remaining fixtures will be confirmed later due to logistical considerations related to upcoming state assembly elections.

Initial IPL 2026 fixtures to be revealed first

Speaking about the tournament’s planning, Saikia stated that the board intends to share the schedule for the opening phase of the competition within the next couple of days. The IPL’s 19th edition is now scheduled to run from March 28 to May 31, a slight shift from the originally proposed window of March 26 to May 30.

According to Saikia, announcing the first part of the schedule will allow the tournament preparations to move forward while giving the board flexibility to finalize the rest of the fixtures later.

“We plan to announce the IPL 2026 schedule by March 12. For now, we are going to release the schedule for the first 20 days,” Saikia said while addressing the update.

The decision to stagger the announcement is primarily linked to the upcoming assembly elections in West Bengal, Assam, and Tamil Nadu. Since election-related security arrangements could impact venue availability and travel logistics, the BCCI wants to ensure there are no scheduling conflicts before finalizing the remainder of the tournament calendar.

Also READ: Gujarat Titans appoint new batting coach ahead of IPL 2026

Franchises in full preparation mode

Even as the official schedule awaits confirmation, IPL franchises have already begun their pre-season training and preparations. Teams are keen to ensure their squads are match-ready ahead of what promises to be another intense edition of the league.

Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings were among the earliest to begin preparations. The franchise started training on March 1 at their High-Performance Centre in Navalur. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni were both present during the early training sessions, drawing excitement from fans.

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru also conducted a short preparation camp earlier in February at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Meanwhile, the Gujarat Titans, who lifted the IPL title in 2022, held multiple practice sessions at the Miraj International Cricket Stadium in Nathdwara as they began fine-tuning their squad combinations.

Also READ: Yellove reloaded: CSK unveil striking new jersey for IPL 2026 in grand style

The roar of over 100,000 fans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad marked a historic moment for Indian cricket on Sunday, March 8, 2026. India etched their name in the record books by defeating New Zealand by 96 runs to retain the T20 World Cup trophy. Amidst the jubilant celebrations and the raining confetti, one figure stood slightly apart, clutching the silverware with a mix of pride and profound sorrow. For Rinku Singh, the explosive middle-order batter, this world championship was the realization of a lifelong dream, one he had shared intimately with his father, Khanchand Singh.

The victory was bittersweet for the Aligarh-born cricketer. Just days before the grand finale, Rinku’s father passed away following a gruelling battle with fourth-stage liver cancer. Having left the camp briefly in late February to perform the last rites, Rinku returned to the squad driven by a singular sense of purpose. On Sunday night, he took to Instagram to share a heart-wrenching tribute that resonated with millions. “You taught me that duty comes before everything else,” Rinku wrote in Hindi. “Now that your dream has been realized… I just wish that you were here with me.”

Rinku Singh pens emotional tribute to late father after India’s T20 World Cup 2026 victory

Rinku’s journey from a humble background, where his father worked delivering LPG cylinders, to becoming a global cricket icon is the stuff of legends. Throughout his career, Khanchand was Rinku’s silent anchor. Even as his father’s health deteriorated due to metastatic liver cancer, Rinku remained committed to his national duties, embodying the “duty first” mantra his father instilled in him.

The emotional void left by his father’s demise was evident in Rinku’s post-match reflections. He confessed that life ahead seemed daunting without the constant guidance of his “Papa.” While the rest of the nation celebrated India becoming the first team to win three T20 World Cup titles and the first to win on home soil, Rinku’s mind was in Aligarh. He noted that every joy, big or small, would now feel incomplete. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the personal sacrifices athletes often make behind the scenes of global glory.

Rinku took to Instagram and wrote: “Aapse baat kiye bina itne din kabhi nahi nikale. Mujhe nahi pata aage ki zindagi aapke bina kaise chalegi… par mujhe har kadam par aapki zaroorat padegi. Aapne sikhaya tha ki farz sabse aage hai.. toh field par bas aapka sapna poora karne ki koshish kar raha tha. Ab aapka sapna pura ho gaya hai…. toh bas yahi lagta hai ki kash aap mere paas hote. Har chhoti badi khushi mein aapki kami khalegi. Bohot miss karunga aapko Papa… bohot zyada.”

Also WATCH: Sanju Samson receives grand welcome at Thiruvananthapuram airport after stellar T20 World Cup 2026 show

Rinku’s immaculate fielding and India’s dominant 2026 campaign

While Rinku’s opportunities with the bat were limited during the 2026 T20 World Cup scoring 24 runs across five innings as his contribution on the field remained immaculate. Known for his lightning-quick reflexes and safe hands, Rinku’s presence at the boundary was a tactical masterstroke by captain Suryakumar Yadav. In the high-stakes final against the Black Caps, India posted a mammoth 255/5, the highest-ever total in a T20 World Cup final, powered by Sanju Samson’s 89 and Abhishek Sharma’s record-breaking 18-ball fifty.

Defending such a total required precision, and Rinku delivered in the deep. His ability to cut off certain boundaries and his composure under high-pressure catches ensured that New Zealand never found momentum, eventually folding for 159. Alongside Jasprit Bumrah’s lethal 4/15 and Axar Patel’s spin masterclass, Rinku’s athletic fielding played a vital role in India’s undefeated streak at the tournament. As the team looks ahead, Rinku remains a symbol of resilience, proving that even in the face of immense personal tragedy, a world champion is defined as much by his character as by his trophies.

Also READ: Abhishek Sharma shares the story behind using Shivam Dube’s bat in the T20 World Cup 2026 Final

Pakistan white-ball coach Mike Hesson has addressed the growing debate surrounding Babar Azam’s absence from the ODI squad for the upcoming Bangladesh tour, starting March 11 in Dhaka. Pakistan’s squad announcement for the three-match ODI series created considerable buzz, largely because former captain Babar was not included in the lineup. The omission comes shortly after Pakistan’s disappointing campaign in the T20 World Cup 2026, prompting speculation that the team management could be moving in a new direction.

Mike Hesson opens up on Babar Azam’s absence in the ODI squad

Hesson has attempted to calm the conversation, emphasizing that the selections are more about experimentation and building depth than sidelining experienced cricketers. Speaking ahead of the Bangladesh tour, Hesson made it clear that the management does not view the squad changes as players being dropped. Instead, he described the series as an opportunity to assess emerging cricketers in the 50-over format, which Pakistan have played sparingly in recent months. According to Hesson, the intention is to create room for promising talents to showcase their abilities on the international stage.

“I wouldn’t say anyone was dropped. We just see this series as an opportunity to give these promising players a chance to prove themselves,” Hesson said during the pre-series press conference.

Several senior players miss out on the tour

Notably, Babar is not the only established name missing from the ODI squad. Pakistan have also left out Fakhar Zaman, who is currently dealing with an injury, along with Mohammad Nawaz and Naseem Shah.

The absence of these experienced players has paved the way for a number of fresh faces to enter the national setup. The selectors have handed opportunities to Abdul Samad, Maaz Sadaqat, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Saad Masood, and Shamyl Hussain, all of whom have impressed in domestic or junior-level cricket.

Their inclusion indicates that the management is eager to evaluate the next generation of Pakistani cricketers and build a stronger pool for the future.

Also READ: Pakistan name 6 uncapped players in ODI squad for Bangladesh tour, no place for Babar Azam

Sahibzada Farhan rewarded for strong performances

Among the players who have benefited from the shake-up is Sahibzada Farhan, who has been rewarded for his impressive performances in the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2026.

Farhan’s aggressive batting and consistency appear to have caught the attention of the selectors, earning him a place in the ODI squad. Hesson acknowledged that Farhan’s recent form made it difficult to ignore him when finalizing the team.

“Sahibzada Farhan has forced himself into the ODI squad because of his exceptional performances in T20s,” Hesson explained.

The coach also highlighted that players like Hussain and Sadaqat have been performing well in domestic competitions and youth-level cricket, making them worthy of a chance at the international level.

Also READ: Bangladesh name strong squad for the ODI series against Pakistan, Atif Hossain returns

The echoes of ‘Chak De India’ have barely faded from the rafters of the Narendra Modi Stadium, but the celebrations for the Men in Blue are just beginning. Following a masterclass in Ahmedabad where India dismantled New Zealand to clinch their record-breaking third T20 World Cup title, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has raised the stakes.

BCCI rewards Team India with massive prize purse for T20 World Cup 2026 success

In a move that reflects the sheer magnitude of the achievement, the board has announced a staggering INR 131 crore cash reward for the squad, support staff, and selectors.

This windfall marks a significant jump from the INR 125 crore disbursed after the 2024 triumph in Barbados. By retaining the trophy on home soil, India hasn’t just defended their crown; they’ve established a cricketing dynasty. The BCCI’s statement on Tuesday lauded the team’s “historic achievement,” noting that this prize money serves as both a reward for excellence and an investment in the continued dominance of Indian cricket on the global stage.

The final against New Zealand was less of a contest and more of a coronation. Under the blinding lights of the world’s largest cricket stadium, India delivered a clinical performance to secure a 96-run victory. The win was a testament to the team’s tactical evolution and mental fortitude. By lifting the trophy in 2026, India became the first nation in the history of the T20 World Cup to successfully defend their title, a feat that had eluded even the great West Indies and English outfits of the past.

Also READ: ICC announces T20 World Cup 2026 Team of the Tournament, Aiden Markram to lead

From group stage shocks to Ahmedabad glory: The path to immortality

While the final scoreline suggests a smooth ride, India’s journey to the INR 131 crore bonus was paved with high-octane drama. Entering the tournament as heavy favourites, the Men in Blue cruised through Group A with four consecutive wins. However, the Super 8s provided a harsh reality check. A bruising 76-run defeat at the hands of South Africa left India’s campaign dangling by a thread.

Faced with a win-or-go-home scenario, the team’s resilience came to the fore. Thumping victories over Zimbabwe and a high-stakes encounter against the West Indies revitalized the squad. This momentum carried them through a high-scoring semi-final thriller against England, proving that this version of Team India thrives under maximum pressure.

This victory also places India at the pinnacle of the format with three titles (2007, 2024, and 2026), breaking the tie with England and the West Indies. The sheer dominance displayed in the final was the perfect antidote to the knockout jitters that had haunted the team for a decade prior to their 2024 breakthrough.

Also READ: “Next stop Olympic gold”: Suryakumar Yadav reveals LA 2028 dream after India’s T20 World Cup triumph

The gates of Thiruvananthapuram International Airport have seen many dignitaries, but on Monday, they witnessed a homecoming like no other. India’s premier wicketkeeper-batter, Sanju Samson, returned to his roots in Kerala after a career-defining campaign at the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

The atmosphere was electric as thousands of fans, draped in the Indian tricolour and chanting “Sanju, Sanju,” gathered hours before his flight touched down. The local hero, hailing from the coastal village of Vizhinjam, didn’t just return with a winner’s medal; he returned as the officially crowned Player of the Tournament, a feat that has ignited a sense of collective pride across the state.

Sanju Samson returns to roaring reception at Thiruvananthapuram airport

Upon his arrival, Samson was greeted with a massive roar from the sea of supporters. Representing the state government, Education Minister V. Sivankutty was present to receive the champion, presenting him with a ceremonial memento and a traditional Kerala shawl. The Minister noted that Sanju’s journey is a beacon of hope for every young athlete in the region.

Despite the chaos of the cheering crowd, Samson took a moment to wave to his fans, visibly moved by the reception. For a player who has often faced the mercurial tag, this homecoming was the ultimate validation. The Kerala government has already announced plans for a grander, formal state reception to further honour his contribution to India’s successful defence of the T20 World Cup title.

Here’s the video:

Sanju Samson receives grand welcomepic.twitter.com/Ozq7D7QMRa

— Aatish Kapoor the oscar winner (@AkashThapa2505) March 10, 2026

Also READ: Complete list of T20 World Cup Player of the Tournament winners ft. Sanju Samson

Samson’s dream run in the T20 World Cup 2026

Samson’s journey to the Player of the Tournament award was a story of resilience. After being sidelined early in the tournament following a lean patch during the New Zealand bilateral series, he was recalled to the XI at a critical juncture. What followed was a triple-treat of match-winning knocks that will be etched in cricketing history.

• The super eights spark: Against the West Indies, India faced a daunting chase of 196. Samson silenced his critics with a clinical, unbeaten 97 off 50 balls, shifting the tournament’s momentum in India’s favour.
• The Wankhede blitz: In the high-pressure semifinal against England, he equaled Virat Kohli’s record for the highest score by an Indian in a T20WC knockout, smashing a breathtaking 89 off 42 deliveries.
• The Ahmedabad final: Saving his best for the grandest stage, Samson delivered another 89 in the final against New Zealand. His 46-ball masterclass at the Narendra Modi Stadium propelled India to a record-breaking 255/5, the highest total ever in a T20 World Cup final.

Samson ended the tournament with 321 runs and a record-shattering 24 sixes, the most by any player in a single edition. During the post-tournament celebrations, Sanju credited his turnaround to visualizing success during his time on the bench in 2024 and receiving technical guidance from the legendary Sachin Tendulkar.

Also READ: Grand welcome awaits Sanju Samson in Kerala after T20 World Cup heroics

The Gujarat Titans are already making strategic moves ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 as the franchise continues to strengthen its backroom staff and squad structure. Since their debut in 2022, the Ahmedabad-based team has emerged as one of the most competitive sides in the tournament, winning the title in their inaugural season and maintaining a strong presence in subsequent editions.

With IPL 2026 scheduled to begin on March 28, franchises are fine-tuning their preparations, and Gujarat have taken a significant step by adding more experience to their coaching group. The team management has consistently focused on creating a balanced setup that blends experienced coaching minds with a stable playing core.

Under head coach Ashish Nehra, GT have developed a reputation for playing fearless cricket while maintaining a calm tactical approach. Their coaching unit already features experienced figures such as Vikram Solanki and Parthiv Patel, and the latest addition further strengthens the think tank as the franchise aims for another deep run in the upcoming IPL season.

Gujarat Titans announce appointment of new batting coach

In a major development ahead of IPL 2026, the Titans have appointed former Australia opener Matthew Hayden as their new batting coach.

Hayden, widely regarded as one of the most destructive opening batters of his era, brings a wealth of international and franchise cricket experience to the role. The former left-handed batter enjoyed a remarkable international career with Australia and was known for his aggressive approach at the top of the order.

A two-time ODI World Cup winner and an ICC Hall of Fame inductee, Hayden has also enjoyed a successful stint in the IPL during his playing days. He represented Chennai Super Kings in 32 matches and played a key role in the team’s success during the early years of the league. Hayden finished as the tournament’s highest run-scorer in the 2009 season and later helped CSK win the IPL title in 2010.

Apart from his playing career, Hayden has gained coaching and mentoring experience in recent years. He previously served as a batting consultant for the Pakistan men’s team, where he worked closely with several international batters during ICC tournaments.

Also READ: Yellove reloaded: CSK unveil striking new jersey for IPL 2026 in grand style

A settled unit ready to dominate IPL 2026

One of Gujarat Titans’ biggest strengths heading into IPL 2026 is the stability of their squad. The franchise retained a league-high 20 players before the December 2025 mini-auction, indicating the management’s strong belief in their core group.

Led by captain Shubman Gill, GT have assembled a squad that combines international stars with exciting domestic talent. The team made only a few targeted additions during the auction, with West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder being the most notable signing for ₹7 crore. Holder’s presence is expected to strengthen both the middle order and the team’s death bowling options.

England’s Tom Banton was also brought in as a backup wicketkeeper-batter, adding flexibility to the squad. Meanwhile, rising Indian pacer Ashok Sharma joined the team after finishing as the leading wicket-taker in the 2025–26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

The Titans’ core remains packed with match-winners, including Rashid Khan, Jos Buttler, Sai Sudharsan and Mohammed Siraj. With a settled squad, a strengthened coaching staff and a confident leadership group, Gujarat Titans appear well-positioned to mount another serious challenge for the IPL title.

Also WATCH: MS Dhoni breaks into hilarious dance while signaling wide during CSK practice ahead of IPL 2026