I’m learning a lot from Rahul Dravid: Sanju Samson

Indian wicketkeeping starlet Sanju Samson has had a near-perfect start to his Ranji Trophy season courtesy of a massively well-constructed century on the first day’s play. Speaking after his ton, the 21-year old went on to reveal the impact Rahul Dravid has had on him. Dravid has worked with Samson in most of his junior levels of cricket.

The first time they worked together was in the IPL with the Rajasthan Royals. They have reunited once again when the former Indian skipper was appointed as the head coach for the India ‘A’ team, a team that Samson was a massive part of. They are also working together in a minimal capacity with the Delhi Daredevils.

“I’m learning a lot from him (Dravid). Each and every youngster who comes out from any India A tour is a better player. We keep on learning each and every day in every practice session. He is someone who can mentor us like anything. It’s a blessing for every youngster in India A side to be mentored by Dravid Sir. We really enjoy his company,” Samson said.

Speaking about the way he approaches his batting, Samson said that he respects the bowlers. “You’ve to learn the situation, read the bowlers’ mind. You just can’t go out there and smash every ball. You’ve to stay out there and sometimes you may look ugly because the bowler is also prepared and he’s also there to take wickets. We should respect the bowlers,” he said.

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“I’ve learnt a lot of things. I can just go on the whole day. Dravid Sir has taught me how to be a better cricketer. I’ve to be a better batsman to play in all three formats.”

Speaking about his wicketkeeping skills, Samson said, “Wriddhi bhai (Wriddhiman) is a legend for me, a great wicket-keeper, and a humble guy. I really love the way he keeps wickets. He is also contributing well in the middle-order.

“I also really learnt a lot from Dhoni bhai in the ODIs and T20s, and Saha bhai in Tests. You always get inspired watching them,” the wicketkeeper-batsman said.

“A wicketkeeper-batsman does the job of an all-rounder. If I didn’t score well, I would have contributed as a wicket-keeper. I really enjoy wicket-keeping and I am looking forward to being better behind the stumps.

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