India's wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson has drawn comparisons between cricket legends and tennis stars, calling former Indian skipper MS Dhoni the 'Roger Federer of cricket' for his calm and composed demeanor, while likening Virat Kohli to Carlos Alcaraz for his explosive and aggressive style.
Samson's Tennis-Cricket Parallels
Speaking on JioStar, Samson said: 'The Roger Federer of cricket? It has to be MS Dhoni. He is very calm and composed in the way he goes about his business. When he performs, it looks effortless yet very powerful.' He added that Carlos Alcaraz is explosive, much like how Virat Kohli started his career, describing Kohli as aggressive and full of power.
Women's World Cup Triumph as Inspiration
Samson described India's ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 victory as a landmark moment that inspired the entire cricketing fraternity. He noted that the win reflected years of hard work and determination, and instilled belief among the men's team that they could emulate the achievement on home soil.
'We were all watching the final. My family members and everyone else were glued to the TV. It was a special moment for all of us in the country,' Samson said. He added that the women's success raised expectations and motivated Indian cricketers to aim for World Cup glory at home.
Samson's Own T20 World Cup Performance
Samson amassed 321 runs in five innings during the tournament at an average of 80.25 and a strike rate of 199.37, hitting 27 fours and 24 sixes. He finished as the third-highest run-getter in the T20 World Cup, surpassing Virat Kohli's total of 319 runs in the 2014 edition to set a new record for most runs by an Indian in a single T20 World Cup campaign.
Historic Victory for India
The victory made India the first team to win the T20 World Cup on home soil, the first to win consecutive titles after their 2024 win, and the first to lift the trophy three times (2007, 2024, and 2026).
