Sanju Samson emerged as one of the biggest stars of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, finishing as Player of the Tournament after powering India’s title-winning campaign. The Kerala batter piled up 321 runs in five innings, averaging 80.25 with a strike rate of 199.37. His tournament also marked a dramatic comeback after being dropped earlier before reclaiming his place. Samson’s resurgence began with an unbeaten 97 against West Indies in the must-win Super Eight match, followed by 89 runs across the semifinal and final. He also surpassed Kohli’s 319-run record from the 2014 edition. Scroll through photos capturing his key moments from this T20 World Cup.
1/6
Sanju Samson plays a shot during the T20 World Cup cricket match between India and West Indies in Kolkata
2/6
Sanju Samson reacts after India won the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 cricket match between India and West Indies
3/6
Sanju Samson acknowledges the crowd as he walks back to the pavilion after his dismissal during the 2026 ICC Men's T20 Cricket World Cup final match
4/6
Sanju Samson (C) celebrates with his coach Gautam Gambhir (L) after their team's win in the 2026 ICC Men's T20 Cricket World Cup final match against New Zealand
5/6
Sanju Samson with teammates greets fans during a victory lap after winning the 2026 ICC Men's T20 Cricket World Cup final match