Sanju Samson is making headlines once again, this time in the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) 2025, as he gears up for the Asia Cup 2025. The Rajasthan Royals captain has joined the Kochi Blue Tigers for a crucial state-level T20 tournament, and his performances have already caught the attention of cricket fans and analysts alike. With a record auction price of Rs 26.80 lakh, Samson is not just a marquee signing for Kochi, but also a beacon of hope for Indian cricket as the Asia Cup approaches.
Samson’s KCL 2025 Journey: Early Performances
Sanju Samson has featured in three matches for Kochi Blue Tigers so far, opening the innings and showcasing his explosive potential. His stats before the Thrissur Titans match on August 26 paint a picture of a player in fine form:
Matches: 3
Innings: 2
Runs: 134
Average: 67.00
Strike Rate: 183.56
Fours: 14
Sixes: 7
While his 13-run outing against Alleppey Ripples was a modest contribution, Samson’s innings against Kollam Sailors was a spectacle. He smashed a blistering 121 off just 51 balls, including 14 boundaries and 7 sixes, earning him the match-winning accolade and reaffirming his credentials as one of India’s most explosive T20 batters.
Match-Winning Century Against Kollam Sailors
The highlight of Samson’s KCL stint has been his maiden KCL century. Opening the innings, he displayed aggressive strokeplay, combining timing with power, and led Kochi to a thrilling victory. The 30-year-old wicket-keeper batter’s performance was crucial in a nail-biting contest that saw teammate Muhammad Ashik finish the game with a last-ball six.
After the match, Samson expressed admiration for the local talent:
“It’s a bit shocking to see we have so much talent in Kerala cricket. I request that we have to put in some special eyes in the local games… In the next one or two years, we should see one more guy playing for the country. And I can see that happening.”
Preparing for the Asia Cup: Samson’s Strategic Role
With the Asia Cup 2025 on the horizon, Samson’s stint in KCL serves as an ideal preparation platform. Although he has returned to opening in the league, India’s lineup for the Asia Cup may see him batting in the middle order, adapting to the presence of Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma at the top.
His current form in KCL 2025 not only boosts his confidence but also provides valuable match practice before representing India in one of Asia’s premier T20 tournaments. Samson’s ability to switch between roles—opening and middle-order—underscores his versatility and tactical value to the national squad.
Upcoming Clash: Kochi Blue Tigers vs Thrissur Titans
Sanju Samson’s next KCL match is scheduled for Tuesday, August 26, when the Kochi Blue Tigers face Thrissur Titans. Fans can expect another high-octane performance as Samson continues to showcase his power-hitting, quick scoring, and wicket-keeping skills.
The Kerala Cricket League has become a hub for emerging talent, and Samson’s participation is shining a spotlight on the depth of cricketing skill in the state. With every boundary and six, he not only cements his own form but also inspires the next generation of cricketers in Kerala.