Nisshin, September 30, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Indian wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson has described Virat Kohli as a major source of inspiration for cricketers across generations, saying the Indian team is “very, very fortunate” to have a player of his stature setting an example on and off the field.
Samson’s remarks came after Kohli scored an unbeaten 139 in the ODI against the West Indies in Thiruvananthapuram, helping India secure an eight-wicket victory. During the innings, Kohli also crossed 15,000 runs in ODIs, becoming only the second batter after Sachin Tendulkar to reach the milestone.
Speaking to reporters ahead of India’s men’s cricket semi-final against Sri Lanka at the Asian Games, Samson praised Kohli’s performances, training and commitment to representing the country.
“We are very, very fortunate to have someone like him. Whenever he scores runs, practises or turns out to play for our country, it is a great inspiration for people like us who are still playing for the Indian national team and for everyone alongside him,” Samson said.
He added that Kohli’s consistent performances benefit the team and expressed his happiness at having him in Indian cricket.
Samson also credited India’s strong domestic cricket structure, alongside the Indian Premier League (IPL), for the country’s growing depth of talent. He said sustained efforts across different levels of the game had helped strengthen the national cricketing pool.
He highlighted tournaments such as the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy and Ranji Trophy, as well as overseas exposure for Under-19 teams, as important platforms for developing emerging players.
Samson said the continued contribution of these competitions was helping produce a steady stream of cricketers for Indian cricket.
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