India, March 8 -- India opener Sanju Samson on Sunday credited legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar for playing a key role in his remarkable, career-defining campaign at the 2026 T20 World Cup. Samson came into the side midway through the tournament and went on to finish as India's highest run-getter, earning the Player of the Tournament award.

After a turbulent 2025 season, Samson had been handed an opportunity to reclaim his place in India's T20I line-up. However, a poor run in the five-match home series against New Zealand saw him lose his spot in the playing XI once again.

Speaking to the broadcasters after the final, Samson admitted the setback had left him devastated, with the Kerala batter fearing a repeat of the 2024 T20 World Cup ...