Star Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Sanju Samson is going through a dream run in the ongoing IPL 2026, playing multiple match-winning innings for the side, especially coming after India's historic T20 World Cup triumph. The 31-year-old star is getting praise from everywhere for his batting performances for CSK. However, Sanju has received special advice to expand his career even further.
Sanjay Manjrekar doubts Sanju Samson's fitness
Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has expressed doubts on the 31-year-old's fitness levels, saying he is not in "peak physical condition". The former India batter advised the CSK star to work hard on his fitness to prolong his playing career as he is not the same 25-year-old player.
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I’m saying that about Sanju Samson as well, who’s also not a 25-year-old because he’s hit the peak of his achievements, just to sustain it. He could also do the same thing, because I see him also not being in peak physical condition,” said Sanjay Manjrekar on Sportstar.
While talking further, Sanjay Manjrekar urged Sanju to take inspiration from someone like Virat Kohli, who worked hard on his body to play as long as possible at the highest level. Even at the age of 37, Virat is as fit as ever without any compromise of diet and schedule.
“When you have a great example, like Virat Kohli, who has had such a long career. You know, just because he’s given fitness so much importance. He’s had tremendous skills, but he’s made sure that the body doesn’t let him down. Because that’s the one you can control,” he added.
Sanju Samson's dream run in IPL 2026
Sanju Samson has managed to pull off a historic maiden season for CSK, serving as their highest run-scorer with 402 runs in 10 games at an average of 57.42 and a strike rate of 167.50. The star India opener smashed two hundreds and one half-century so far in the tournament.
The right-handed batter played a masterclass knock of unbeaten 87 off 52 balls in CSK's clash against Delhi Capitals, while chasing 156. The former RR skipper managed to hit seven boundaries and six maximums in his innings.