Sanju Samson's remarkable performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season has caught the attention of many, but former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar believes there's more to his success than meets the eye. While Samson has been a consistent performer for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Manjrekar's concern lies in the cricketer's physical fitness, which he believes could be a key factor in sustaining his career.
Manjrekar's advice to Samson is simple yet impactful: seek guidance from the legendary Virat Kohli. Kohli, known for his unwavering dedication to fitness, has had a long and successful career, and Manjrekar believes that Samson could benefit greatly from his mentorship. The former India batter emphasizes the importance of physical fitness, especially for wicket-keeper batters like Samson, who have a more demanding role in the game.
Samson's current form is undoubtedly impressive, with 402 runs in 10 matches at a strike rate of 167. However, Manjrekar's concern is not just about his current performance but also about maintaining that level of excellence over a longer period. By focusing on fitness, Samson could potentially extend his career and sustain his remarkable achievements.
The comparison between Samson and Kohli is not arbitrary. Kohli's commitment to fitness has been a cornerstone of his success, and Manjrekar believes that Samson could learn a lot from his approach. The wicket-keeper batter's role, which involves both batting and keeping wickets for 20 overs, makes fitness an even more critical aspect of his game.
Manjrekar's commentary highlights a deeper question: how can athletes sustain their peak performance over a long career? His advice to Samson is a reminder that while talent is essential, it's the dedication to fitness that can make the difference between a short-lived career and a lasting legacy. As Samson continues to shine in the IPL, his decision to take on Manjrekar's advice could be a turning point in his career, ensuring he remains at the top of his game for years to come.
