Surreal feeling to have Rahul sir back as coach: Sanju Samson

In a conversation with JioHotstar, Rajasthan captain Sanju Samson recalled that after observing him in the nets, Dravid approached him and asked, "Okay, can you play for my team?"

Hyderabad: Sanju Samson’s Tata IPL journey began in 2013 when Rahul Dravid was the captain and he recalls how in his first season “Rahul Sir was the one who spotted me during the trials. He was the captain back then, looking out for young talent.”

In a chat with JioHotstar, Rajasthan captain Samson said after watching him play in the nets, Dravid came up to him and said “‘Okay, can you play for my team?’

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“From that day to today, it feels surreal. Now, I am the captain of the franchise, and Rahul sir has returned after so many years to coach the team. It’s a unique and special feeling. He was always part of the Rajasthan Royals family,” Samson said.

Samson highlighted Dravid’s meticulous approach and dedication, saying “I’ve always observed him from a distance and also been close to him. He’s a top-notch professional who ensures that every aspect of preparation is taken care of.”.

“ I was with him last month in Nagpur, Talegaon, and saw how involved he is. From 10 am to 5 pm in the heat, he was there watching batters and bowlers in actioin, interacting with them, discussing strategies with the coaches.

“What I admire most in Rahul Sir is how to prepare better. Preparation is a key part of his character, and I want to incorporate that into my own approach,” he said..”

Samson also shared valuable advice he received from Dravid in his early days, which he now applies as a captain.

“As a captain, I see how he led from the front—not just through his skills but off the field as well. He never missed an optional practice session when he was the captain,” the Rajasthan Royal star opener said. “I observed how he treated young players in the dressing room, how he communicated with seniors, how he handled team meetings, and how he welcomed new players. All those small but significant things shaped my understanding of leadership, and I try to follow the same
approach,” he concluded.