Sanju Samson Draws Parallel Between Cricket and Mohanlal’s Cinema

In a recent discussion, Indian cricket team’s wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson drew an intriguing connection between his role on the cricket field and the cinematic versatility of veteran actor Mohanlal. During a conversation with cricket analyst Sanjay Manjrekar, Samson addressed a question regarding his preferred batting position by referencing Mohanlal’s recent accolade—the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award.

Linking Roles in Cricket and Cinema

Samson began by highlighting Mohanlal’s illustrious career, stating, “Our Lalettan, Mohanlal, you know the actor from Kerala? He was recently given one of the country’s highest recognitions. He has been entertaining audiences through cinema for nearly four decades.” This comment sparked a light-hearted exchange between the two, with Manjrekar prompting Samson to elaborate on the connection.

As the conversation unfolded, Samson explained his philosophy: “I have been playing for India for almost ten years now. I can’t restrict myself to being just the ‘hero’. At times, I must take up different roles, whether as a villain, a joker, or anything the team needs. Why can’t I be a good villain too?” This analogy showcases the dynamic nature of both cricket and acting, where flexibility and adaptation are crucial for success.

The discussion took a humorous turn when Manjrekar accidentally referred to Samson as “Mohanlal.” In a playful response, Samson quipped, “I am Sanju Mohanlal Samson,” eliciting laughter and underscoring the light-hearted nature of the exchange.

A Shared Admiration

This is not the first time Samson has expressed admiration for Mohanlal. In a gesture of respect, he previously gifted the legendary actor a Rajasthan Royals jersey when he assumed the role of team captain. Mohanlal responded with congratulations and well wishes for Samson’s success in cricket.

Interestingly, Samson’s comments resonate with Mohanlal’s own career trajectory. The actor has recently embraced complex roles, such as Khureshi-Ab’raam/Stephen Nedumpally in the film Lucifer. Early in his career, he gained acclaim for his powerful portrayals of antagonists, showcasing his ability to navigate a range of characters.

Samson’s analogy serves as a reminder of the similarities between cricket and cinema, emphasizing the need for constant reinvention based on the demands of the situation. Both fields require individuals to step outside their comfort zones and embrace diverse roles, whether on the pitch or in front of the camera.

As the cricketing world looks ahead to events like the Asia Cup 2025, Samson’s reflections on adaptability may prove beneficial, illustrating how a willingness to embrace change can lead to greater success in both sports and the arts.