[WATCH] Sreesanth, Samson avoid handshakes during KCL 2026 final

Kerala cricket icons S Sreesanth and Sanju Samson have caught the attention of social media after an incident during the presentation ceremony following the final of the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) 2026. The moment has gained widespread attention online, with fans speculating about the nature of the interaction.

Sreesanth was present at the venue to collect the Fair Play Award on behalf of the Aries Kollam Sailors, of which he is a co-owner and mentor. The Thrissur Titans defeated the Calicut Globstars in the final of the KCL 2026 at the Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday, September 5, lifting their maiden title.

Sreesanth and Samson avoid handshakes, raise speculation among fans

Samson and Sreesanth were seen together during the presentation ceremony following the final. Sreesanth, on his way to collect the Fair Play Award, shook hands with all dignitaries on the stage except for Samson, who was present as the league ambassador.

The moment sparked widespread attention among fans and admirers of the game, arising converstaions about the nature of the relationship between the two. The exact nature of the interaction could not be gauged from the clip, and neither party has addressed the incident either.

Samson and Sreesanth's previous longstanding relationship

Sreesanth and Samson have shared a close personal and professional connection, with Samson debuting for Kerala under the former fast-bowler. Having played a mentor-like role in Samson's career, Sreesanth even played a key part in Samson securing trials with Rajasthan Royals for the IPL. 

Samson caught the eye of Rahul Dravid, who played a vital role in integrating the wicketkeeper-batter into the Royals' set-up. Sreesanth has further reiterated his support for Samson, even speaking out when the latter had been omitted from previous India squads. He even faced suspension by the Kerala Cricket Association for strong criticism of Samson's absence from domestic squads. Samson was an integral part of India's T20 World Cup-winning side in 2026, scoring 321 runs in five matches, striking at 199.37 and was named the Player of the Tournament.