In a heartfelt tribute to one of India's brightest cricket talents, the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) is set to honour Sanju Samson, whose explosive
performances were instrumental in India's triumphant T20 World Cup campaign.
The ceremony will coincide with the grand inauguration of KCA's brand-new, cutting-edge cricket stadium in Mangalapuram, Mullassery, a facility poised to revolutionise training and matches in the state capital.
Sanju Samson set for KCA Felicitation
Scheduled for Monday, March 16, at 6 PM, the event promises pomp and pageantry as Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan officially hands over the ultra-modern venue to the sporting fraternity. Samson, arriving as the chief guest, will receive the association's warm felicitation directly from KCA officials under the CM's auspices-a moment that underscores his meteoric rise from Kerala roots to international stardom.
Presiding over the proceedings will be KCA President Sreejith V Nair, joined by a roster of dignitaries including Sports Minister V Abdurahman, Education Minister V Sivankutty, Food and Civil Supplies Minister GR Anil, and local MLAs V Sasi and Kadakampally Surendran.
Reflecting on Samson's contributions, KCA President Sreejith V Nair emphasized how the 31-year-old's match-winning cameos and leadership in the high-stakes tournament have ignited aspirations among emerging talents. "Sanju's pivotal role in that historic victory isn't just a chapter in cricket history-it's a beacon for the next generation," Nair said. He added that the Mangalapuram Stadium, equipped with world-class pitches, floodlights, and training amenities, will accelerate cricket's growth in Thiruvananthapuram, nurturing homegrown stars like Samson.
KCA Secretary Vinod S Kumar echoed these sentiments, noting, "This gesture from his birthplace to Sanju-the man who has become synonymous with Indian cricket's resurgence-will elevate the inauguration to an unforgettable spectacle, blending pride, progress, and passion for the game. "
Sanju Samson in T20 World Cup 2026
Sanju Samson delivered a sensational performance in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, emerging as India's hero despite a late entry into the playing XI. Playing only five innings, he amassed 321 runs at an average of 80.25 and a blistering strike rate of 199.37, finishing as the third-highest run-scorer overall.
He starred in the knockout stages with three explosive knocks: an unbeaten 97 off 50 balls vs West Indies (Super 8), 89 off 42 vs England (semi-final), and 89 off 46 vs New Zealand in the final. These yielded 275 runs at a strike rate of 199 in high-pressure games. Samson smashed 24 sixes and earned Player of the Tournament, powering India to retain the title.
