India’s T20 World Cup hero Sanju Samson has revealed that conversations with legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar played a crucial role in helping him regain confidence and turn his fortunes around during the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Samson, who was named Player of the Tournament after India’s successful title defence, admitted that he felt his “dreams had shattered” following a disappointing T20I series against New Zealand before the tournament.

Sachin Tendulkar’s guidance proved vital

Speaking after India’s triumph, Samson said he had been in regular contact with Tendulkar over the past couple of months, seeking advice and clarity about his mindset and preparation.

“To be honest, there has been a lot of guidance and suggestions from senior players. From the last couple of months, I’ve been in constant touch with Sachin sir,” Samson said.

The wicketkeeper-batter revealed that Tendulkar even called him the night before the final to check on him.

“Getting guidance from someone like him – that clarity, game preparation, awareness and game sense – I’m really grateful,” Samson added.

From disappointment to tournament hero

Samson’s journey in the tournament was far from straightforward. During the T20I series against New Zealand before the World Cup, he managed only 46 runs in five innings, which resulted in him losing his place in the playing XI to Ishan Kishan.

Reflecting on that phase, Samson admitted he was emotionally drained.

“Right after the New Zealand series, I was broke. I was completely out of my mind. I felt like my dreams had shattered. But God had different plans,” he said.

Crucial comeback in knockout stages

Samson returned to the playing XI during the Super Eight stage, starting with a must-win clash against the West Indies. From that point, he delivered a series of match-winning performances.

He scored an unbeaten 97 off 50 balls against West Indies to guide India to their highest successful run chase in T20 World Cup history. He then followed it up with 89 against England in the semi-final and 89 against New Zealand in the final.

Despite playing only five matches, Samson finished with 321 runs at a strike rate of 199.37, emerging as one of the standout performers of the tournament.

A dream shaped years earlier

Interestingly, Samson said his dream of delivering such performances began during the 2024 T20 World Cup, where he was part of the squad but did not get an opportunity to play.

“I couldn’t get a game then, but I kept dreaming, visualising and working hard. I wanted to be ready when the opportunity came,” he said.

Looking back at his remarkable journey, Samson described the moment as surreal.

“This itself is very big for me. I just want to enjoy it right now,” he said.