Sanju Samson Compares Batting Roles to Mohanlal’s Versatile Roles

Indian cricketer and wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson recently made an intriguing comparison between his role on the cricket field and the diverse characters portrayed by renowned actor Mohanlal. During a conversation with cricket analyst Sanjay Manjrekar, Samson was prompted to discuss his preferred batting position, leading to a broader reflection on adaptability in both cricket and cinema.

Samson began the discussion by highlighting Mohanlal’s recent achievement, the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, one of India’s highest honors in film. “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,” Samson noted, seamlessly connecting the world of cricket to cinema.

The conversation took an amusing turn when Manjrekar sought clarity on Samson’s analogy. The cricketer explained, “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 perspective emphasizes the necessity of versatility in high-pressure sports environments, much like the roles actors assume in film.

Samson’s exchange with Manjrekar concluded on a light-hearted note when the commentator mistakenly referred to him as “Mohanlal.” Samson responded with a grin, “I am Sanju Mohanlal Samson,” showcasing his easygoing personality and comfort in engaging with fans and media alike.

This isn’t the first instance of Samson expressing admiration for Mohanlal. A few years ago, he gifted the legendary actor a Rajasthan Royals jersey when he was named the team’s captain. Mohanlal reciprocated by congratulating Samson and wishing him success, marking a notable connection between the sports and entertainment worlds.

The analogy drawn by Samson resonates deeply, reflecting how both cricket and cinema require individuals to continually reinvent themselves. Mohanlal, known for his remarkable versatility, has recently embraced complex characters, such as the morally ambiguous Khureshi-Ab’raam/Stephen Nedumpally in the film *Lucifer*. Early in his career, he gained acclaim for his powerful performances as antagonists, demonstrating his ability to adapt to various roles.

This comparison between Samson and Mohanlal highlights a broader theme: both fields demand flexibility and the willingness to step outside one’s comfort zone. As the cricket community looks forward to the Asia Cup 2025, Samson’s insights may serve as an inspiration for his teammates and aspiring cricketers, emphasizing that success often lies in the ability to embrace different roles based on the needs of the moment.

In summation, Sanju Samson’s remarks not only celebrate the versatility of Mohanlal but also underscore the dynamic nature of cricket. As athletes and actors alike navigate their careers, adaptability remains a crucial component of achieving excellence.