A 96-run demolition of New Zealand in Ahmedabad’s grand finale handed India the T20 World Cup 2026. Sanju Samson’s 89 off 46 balls, his third straight fifty, was the catalyst for this historic third title.
Player of the Series accolades followed his stellar show, marking a career pinnacle.
Samson revealed Tendulkar’s profound influence in restoring his self-belief. ‘Sachin sir guided me through lows after Australia,’ he explained. ‘His insights on mindset, awareness, and prep were crucial. The pre-final pep talk sealed it.’
Post-guidance, Samson was a picture of serenity and power, forging T20 immortality for India.
His ledger: 321 runs in 5 games, 80.25 average, 199.38 strike rate, 24 fours, 27 sixes – topping runs (beating Kohli) and sixes charts.
Unbeaten 97 vs WI, 89 vs ENG semis, 89 vs NZ final – pure dominance. From 2015 debut to 2026 stardom, Samson’s arc embodies resilience fueled by a legend’s tutelage.