Sanju Samson Biography : Sanju Viswanath Samson is one of the most talented wicket-keeper batters in modern Indian cricket. Known for his elegant stroke play, sharp reflexes behind the stumps, and calm leadership skills, he has become a prominent figure in Indian domestic cricket, the Indian Premier League (IPL), and the national team. From a young boy in Kerala with a passion for the game to leading the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL and donning the Indian jersey, his journey is a story of persistence, determination, and belief. This biography explores Sanju Samson’s age, family, cricketing career, achievements, and net worth in 2025.
Age and Early Life
Sanju Samson was born on 11 November 1994 in Pulluvila, a coastal village near Vizhinjam in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. As of 2025, he is 30 years old. His upbringing played a key role in shaping his character and cricketing discipline.
His father, Samson Viswanath, worked as a police constable in Delhi and was also a footballer who represented Delhi in the Santosh Trophy. His mother, Lily Samson, is a homemaker. Sanju has an elder brother, Saly Samson, who played cricket at the junior level for Kerala.
Sanju spent much of his childhood in Delhi, where his father was posted. He studied at Rosary Senior Secondary School in Delhi and trained under coach Yashpal at the DL DAV Model School in Shalimar Bagh. After not being selected for Delhi’s U-13 cricket team, the family returned to Kerala, where Sanju’s cricketing journey took a decisive turn.
He pursued his education at Mar Ivanios College in Thiruvananthapuram, earning a degree in English Literature while simultaneously focusing on cricket. His early struggles and resilience became stepping stones for his rise in domestic and international cricket.
Family Support and Personal Life
Sanju’s family has always been the backbone of his career. His father’s involvement in sports ensured discipline and encouragement, while his mother supported him through difficult times. His elder brother also motivated him to continue his pursuit of cricket despite setbacks.
In December 2018, Sanju married his college friend Charulatha Ramesh in a private ceremony in Thiruvananthapuram. Their marriage marked the beginning of a new phase in his personal life, one that has brought stability and balance alongside his demanding cricketing career.
Domestic Cricket Career
Sanju Samson first came into the spotlight through his performances for Kerala in age-group cricket. At just 14, he captained Kerala’s U-13 team and was among the top run-scorers in the Vijay Merchant Trophy at U-16 level. His consistent batting displays earned him selection in Kerala’s Ranji Trophy squad.
He made his first-class debut for Kerala in 2011–12. His natural flair and ability to dominate bowlers quickly established him as one of the most promising young batters in Indian domestic cricket. Over the years, he became a mainstay in Kerala’s batting line-up and even took up the captaincy in Ranji Trophy.
One of his most remarkable innings came during the 2019–20 Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he scored an unbeaten 212 against Goa. This knock became the fastest double century by an Indian in List A cricket, further highlighting his immense talent.
Indian Premier League (IPL) Career
Sanju’s IPL journey has been central to his fame. He was first picked by the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2012, although he did not get a chance to play. In 2013, he was signed by Rajasthan Royals, where he made his mark as a teenager with a half-century in just his second match.
From 2013 to 2015, he became a key part of Rajasthan Royals’ middle order. After the team’s suspension, he played for Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) during 2016 and 2017. In 2018, he returned to Rajasthan Royals, where he flourished further.
In 2021, Sanju Samson was appointed captain of Rajasthan Royals, a responsibility he has carried with maturity and consistency. Under his leadership, RR reached the IPL 2022 final, where they finished as runners-up. His aggressive yet composed batting style, coupled with smart decision-making, has made him one of the most respected leaders in the league.
Over the years, he has scored several match-winning knocks, including centuries and quickfire innings that have made him a crowd favorite. By 2025, Sanju remains the face of Rajasthan Royals and one of the most consistent performers in the IPL.
International Career
Sanju Samson made his international debut for India in 2015 in a T20I against Zimbabwe. Though he showed promise, he struggled to find consistency and was in and out of the side for years.
His perseverance finally paid off when he was selected again for India’s white-ball squads. He made his ODI debut in July 2021 against Sri Lanka. Despite limited opportunities, he delivered impactful performances when given the chance.
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On 21 December 2023, Sanju scored his maiden ODI century against South Africa, proving his ability to perform on the biggest stage. In T20 Internationals, he has contributed with aggressive innings at the top and middle order, including match-winning fifties and centuries.
By 2025, Sanju Samson is recognized as a dependable wicket-keeper batter for India in white-ball cricket. His ability to adapt to different formats has made him a valuable squad member, though competition for the wicket-keeper slot remains intense.
Playing Style and Strengths
Sanju Samson is admired for his stylish stroke play, especially his cover drives and lofted shots over the infield. He has a natural ability to time the ball, making batting look effortless. His aggressive intent often puts pressure on bowlers, and he is particularly strong against spin and pace alike.
As a wicket-keeper, his reflexes are sharp, and he is reliable behind the stumps. His calm demeanor on the field, combined with his leadership qualities, makes him an asset for both Kerala and Rajasthan Royals.
Achievements and Records
Sanju Samson’s career includes several notable achievements:
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Fastest double century by an Indian in List A cricket (212* against Goa in 2019–20 Vijay Hazare Trophy).
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Maiden ODI century for India against South Africa in 2023.
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Multiple centuries and match-winning knocks in the IPL, including against quality bowling attacks.
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Captain of Rajasthan Royals, leading them to the IPL 2022 final.
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Represented Kerala across all formats as a captain and senior player.
Net Worth in 2025
Sanju Samson’s net worth in 2025 is estimated to be around $12 million USD (approx. ₹100 crore).
His earnings come from multiple sources, including:
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IPL contracts with Rajasthan Royals, where he is among the highest-paid players.
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Match fees and central contracts from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
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Endorsements and brand sponsorships with leading sports and lifestyle companies.
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Investments and business ventures, including sports academies.
Personal Life Beyond Cricket
Away from cricket, Sanju enjoys a balanced lifestyle with his wife, Charulatha. He is also known for his philanthropic efforts and his commitment to promoting sports in Kerala. He established the Six Guns Sports Academy in Thiruvananthapuram, focusing on nurturing young talent in cricket and football.
His calm personality, combined with his grounded upbringing, makes him a role model for aspiring cricketers in India.
FAQs on Sanju Samson
1. What is Sanju Samson’s age in 2025?
He is 30 years old.
2. Who is Sanju Samson’s wife?
He married Charulatha Ramesh in December 2018.
3. Which IPL team does Sanju Samson play for?
He captains Rajasthan Royals.
4. What is Sanju Samson’s highest score in List A cricket?
His highest score is 212* against Goa in the 2019–20 Vijay Hazare Trophy.
5. What is Sanju Samson’s net worth in 2025?
His net worth is estimated at $12 million (₹100 crore).
Conclusion
Sanju Samson’s journey from a boy in Kerala to a national cricketer and IPL captain is a testament to his dedication and hard work. His elegant batting, leadership qualities, and ability to perform under pressure have made him a fan favorite. While his international career has seen ups and downs, his resilience and form in domestic cricket and the IPL have kept him in contention as one of India’s leading wicket-keeper batters. As of 2025, Sanju Samson stands as a shining example of determination, proving that talent combined with perseverance can overcome any hurdle.
