India opener Sanju Samson revealed that former champions helped him prepare before the recent T20 World Cup 2026. Samson said he got the chance to work with Yuvraj Singh and Robin Uthappa, which helped him win the Player of the Tournament award.
He scored 321 runs in five matches at an average of 80.25 and an impressive strike rate of 199.38. The Kerala-born cricketer returned to the playing XI during the final stages of the tournament. India won their second consecutive T20 World Cup title after defeating New Zealand in the final.
“Yuvi Paaji Called Me and Said…” - Sanju Samson
Speaking to India Today, Sanju Samson said that Yuvraj Singh and Robin Uthappa reached out to him before the tournament. Samson said he accepted their advice and spent time learning from them.
“Yuvi paaji called me and said, ‘Yaar, the World Cup is coming for you. I think you should spend some time with me, it will really help.’ Yuvi paaji and Robin bhai both reached out. So I went and gave them the respect they deserved and learned whatever they had to share,” Samson said.
“I Reached Out to Sachin Tendulkar” - Sanju Samson
Sanju Samson also received guidance from Sachin Tendulkar. While he was sitting out of the playing XI in Australia, Samson contacted the legendary cricketer to talk about mindset and preparation.
“When I was sitting outside in Australia and not playing a game, I reached out to sir (Tendulkar). I had long conversations with him. Even yesterday, he called me to check how I was feeling. I am very grateful for that clarity and preparation,” Samson said.
Samson scored an unbeaten 97 off 50 balls against the West Indies. He also smashed 89 off 42 against England in the semifinal and 89 off 46 against New Zealand in the final. He will next be seen in action for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL.
Also read: Sahibzada Farhan among ICC Player of the Month nominees for February 2026