Saly Samson Confident Brother Sanju’s Influence Will Inspire Kochi Blue Tigers in KCL 2026

Kochi Blue Tigers, the reigning Kerala Cricket League champions, have retained all‑rounder Saly Samson as their captain for the upcoming third season of KCL 2026.

As the older brother of Indian cricketer Sanju Samson, who led a dominant campaign last year, Saly will return to the helm, retained for ₹7.5 lakh, alongside teammate Mohammed Ashiq.

Saly’s leadership in KCL Season 2 was exemplary; under his astute guidance, the Blue Tigers secured the title with a commanding 75‑run win over Kollam Sailors in the final, combining tactical sharpness with all‑round performances.

His composed authority in pressure situations, combined with crucial wickets and sharp fielding — including several spectacular catches — was key in turning a promising but inexperienced squad into champions. The victory also held special family significance, as Saly captained the side while his younger brother Sanju delivered explosive performances, highlighted by a blistering century.

Saly Samson set to lead Kochi Blue Tigers in KCL 2026

Ahead of KCL’s third season, the elder Samson brother said he is prepared to refine his leadership role. In an exclusive conversation with MyKhel, Saly expressed gratitude to the franchise for their continued trust.

“I’m pleased they’ve entrusted me with the same responsibility this year. Our squad retains a solid balance, with most of last season’s core players returning, which leaves us optimistic.”

“The only drawback is Sanju Samson’s absence this term; aside from that, we’re very pleased with the composition of the team.”

Sanju, who featured in a handful of matches for Kochi last season, will not be part of the squad this time, having informed the franchise of his unavailability in advance. Saly explained that his brother’s decision to sit out is purely personal.

He simply won’t be as available as he was last season, so we prefer not to focus on it — there’s nothing else to add.

Sanju Samson is slated to represent India at the forthcoming Asian Games. Having already been omitted from the Indian side for the Zimbabwe series, the KCL could have served as a useful tuning ground, but the Kerala star has opted not to participate.

Saly Samson eyes Batting contribution

Unlike his brother Sanju, Saly is an all‑rounder who can bowl medium pace. He enjoyed success with the ball last season and is now preparing to take on a larger batting responsibility in the upcoming campaign.

“I aim to contribute more with the bat, while also improving my fielding and bowling. I believe I have untapped batting potential that I didn’t fully utilize last year, and I hope to make a stronger impact with the bat this season.”

Sanju Samson has left his ‘Aura’

Regarding Sanju’s absence, Saly feels his brother’s aura continues to resonate within the Kochi squad, and the team intends to build on the momentum Sanju established last season.

“It is certainly a challenge to play without Sanju. We benefited from his aura and performances last season, and every player gained from that experience. The positive takeaway is that he has left that energy with the team; we still possess that drive, he demonstrated what we can achieve with the bat, and the players will undoubtedly absorb those lessons.”

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