Sanju Samson’s father reveals how Shashi Tharoor supported his son since age 11: 'I pray he lives 100 years'

India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson has been the talk of the town ever since he delivered a Player of the Tournament performance to help India win the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Sanju played key knocks for India in the knockout matches and helped the team defend the crown, achieving the feat on home soil.

Sanju Samson’s father, Samson Viswanath, spoke to India Today about his son’s performances and also revealed how senior politician Shashi Tharoor helped his son during the early stages of his cricket career. Viswanath wished Tharoor on his birthday and thanked him for the support he gave to Sanju over the years.

“I wish Shashi Tharoor sir a happy 70th birthday. I pray that he lives for 100 years. Sir has supported my son since he was 11 years old,” Viswanath said.

Samson’s father to celebrate Tharoor’s birthday

He also revealed that he planned to celebrate the special day with his friends. Viswanath said that he usually has a drink or two after 7 PM but had recently stopped because he has a local football match coming up in which he is supposed to play. However, he added that he would make an exception on this occasion.

“I am going to celebrate his birthday with my friends. Usually, I have a drink or two after 7:00 PM, but I had stopped because I have a football match coming up in which I am supposed to play. However, I will do it tonight with my friends,” he added.

Samson was not part of the playing XI in the initial games but was included after Rinku Singh left due to a family emergency. His performances were so impactful that the team management decided to keep Rinku out even after his return. This was because Abhishek Sharma was also not performing at the top of the order.

Samson scored 321 runs at a stunning strike rate of 199.37 in just five matches. He shone in the knockout stage with consecutive high-impact fifties against West Indies (97*), England (89), and New Zealand (89).