Virat Kohli was highlighted as the benchmark for Sanju Samson on 5 July 2026, when former India selector Rahul Dravid urged the young wicket‑keeper‑batter to model his game after the former captain following the senior team's surprising omission of Samson from the upcoming tour.
Why did the snub happen?
India’s management left Samson out of the limited‑overs squad for the England series, citing a need for a more experienced middle order. The decision sparked a media frenzy, with analysts questioning whether the move was driven by form, fitness, or internal politics. Samson, who has averaged 45 in ODIs, found himself on the outside despite a strong domestic season.
How is Virat Kohli linked?
Dravid, speaking to a Mumbai‑based sports channel, said, “Sanju should look at how Virat built his career – relentless fitness, mental toughness, and a hunger to dominate every bowler.” The former captain’s record of 70 ODI centuries and 8,000 runs in a calendar year was used as a concrete example of the standards Samson should chase. Kohli’s recent 85‑run knock against Sri Lanka was cited as proof that his form remains elite.
What does this mean for Samson’s future?
The endorsement has put pressure on Samson to elevate his game quickly. Coaches at the Rajasthan Royals, his IPL franchise, announced a new training regimen mirroring Kohli’s pre‑match routines, including early‑morning net sessions and a focus on strike‑rate improvement. If Samson can adapt, he could force a recall before the next Test series in Australia.
How will fans react?
Social media lit up with mixed reactions. Some fans praised the comparison, noting Kohli’s work ethic as a template for any aspiring batsman. Others argued that Samson should carve his own identity rather than emulate a legend. The hashtag #KohliModel trended for several hours, reflecting the debate’s intensity.
What’s next for Indian selection?
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to release a revised squad list by the end of the month. If Samson impresses in the upcoming IPL matches, especially with a half‑century in the high‑pressure chase against the Delhi Capitals, his chances of re‑entry improve dramatically. Meanwhile, Kohli continues to lead the batting charts, reinforcing his status as the yardstick for Indian talent.
Is the mentorship approach effective?
Historical data shows that players who publicly adopt a senior’s methods often see a performance boost. For instance, Rishabh Pant’s 2022 surge followed a similar endorsement from Kohli. Whether Samson can replicate that trajectory remains to be seen, but the early signs are promising.
Bottom line
Virat Kohli’s influence extends beyond his own runs; his career path now serves as a blueprint for Sanju Samson, who must decide whether to follow that road or forge his own. The next few weeks will reveal if the mentorship narrative translates into on‑field success.