From its initial times, Indian Cricket has always lucked out in the captaincy department. Starting from CK Nayudu to Kapil Dev, Gavaskar to Ganguly, and MS Dhoni to Kohli, we have how these exceptional players transformed the plays of their games with their outstanding strategies. What made their captaincy legendary were their great leadership skills. Whether it is about motivating the team, showing confidence in their players, figuring out strategies to beat the opponent, or remaining calm in the chaos, these leaders never failed to show their trust in their team. Recently, in this season of IPL 2022, a new name has made the headlines for his amazing leadership skills. Yes, I am talking about Rajasthan Royal’s captain, Sanju Samson.
Whether it's about rotating new players or introducing spinning combos, the team of Rajasthan Royals has undergone a series of experimentations under the captainship of the ‘natural-born leader’, Sanju Samson in this IPL season. The talented wicketkeeper-batsman from Kerala has shown great leadership skills and has led his team in the Top 2 on the points table.
Since its inaugural edition in 2008, Rajasthan Royals have won the IPL title one time under the captaincy of Shane Warne. Now, with their continuous victories in this season, RR’s chances of winning the IPL trophy are higher than ever. While Rajasthan has an explosive batting order, it’s the bowling order that’s been flourishing under the leadership of Samson. It was apparent in their match against Lucknow when Trent Boult dished out two golden ducks that set the tone for Rajasthan’s win. Of course, we cannot forget the exemplary performances of Yuzvendra Chahal and Ashwin throughout this season. Chahal has taken 24 wickets and Ashwin 10 wickets so far. It is uncanny how Samson knows exactly how and when to use his bowlers in the right areas to get the wickets.
Even former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden reckoned Rajasthan Royals have the best bowling line-up in this season and has complimented Sanju Samson, for using them in the best way possible. Samson has used his strategy of rotating his players consecutively, encouraging them to access their areas, their lines and lengths. His trust and confidence in his players prove him to be the perfect leader of the team. He chose Kuldeep Sen and Ryan Parag in the playing XI and encouraged them to play independently. Both the players so far, have lived up to the expectations.
Suffice to say, Samson underwent a distinct change in his approach. He started adjusting his playing styles to suit the demands of his team. The credit for Rajasthan's stellar performance this season largely goes to captain Sanju Samson. His strategies for his team have been very effective so far. Many times he has been a savior for his team. Against Sunrisers Hyderabad, playing a proper captain's knock, Samson scored an impressive 55 runs from 27 balls. Player of the Match Sanju Samson, who was playing in his 100th match for Rajasthan Royals, combined well with Devdutt Padikkal for an impressive 73-run partnership off 39 balls. Sanju Samson has scored 359 runs in 13 matches this season at a strike rate of 153.41. During this, he also scored two half-centuries.
Suffice to say that, Samson’s unconventional leadership is doing wonders for him. His team’s strong affinity towards him proves their tremendous respect for him. Like a great leader, Samson always comes forward to take charge of his team, playing his best until the very last ball. It will be interesting to see what all magic the young leader has in store for us in the upcoming matches.
