Cricket

IPL 2024: Ravichandran Ashwin weighs in on his relationship with Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson

March 5, 2024

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 is set to begin from March 22. So far, only the first leg of IPL schedule is released that features 21 matches. The rest of the schedule will be out once the dates of general elections in India will be announced. Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the defending champions, will be playing the tournament’s opener against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Chennai.

Meanwhile, ahead of the start of IPL 2024, experienced campaigner Ravichandran Ashwin has shared insights into his relationship with Sanju Samson and his experience playing under Samson’s captaincy for Rajasthan Royals (RR).

Ravichandran Ashwin’s reflections on Sanju Samson’s captaincy

Ashwin, the veteran spinner, lauded Samson’s leadership style, describing it as “phenomenal.” He emphasized their collaborative dynamic on the field, where Ashwin offers strategic insights based on the game’s progression. However, off the field, their relationship takes on a different tone, resembling that of “younger brother, elder brother.”

“On the field, I try and give him inputs as I see how the game is panning out. However, that relationship off the field doesn’t come on the field. It’s generally that younger brother, elder brother sort of a relationship off it. On the field, we are able to switch off,” said Ashwin in a video on Star Sports.

On-field dynamics and collaboration

While Ashwin provided inputs during matches, he underlined the clear distinction between their off-field camaraderie and their on-field focus. He expressed admiration for Samson’s ability to balance both aspects seamlessly, indicating a high level of maturity and leadership from the young captain.

“I do what he wants and give my inputs and then he takes what he wants and gets on with it. I find Sanju as a young captain, he is able to differentiate and demarcate both which is phenomenal,” added the Chennai-born spinner.

Also READ: Yuzvendra Chahal predicts the Orange and Purple Cap winners of IPL 2024

Samson’s off-field persona

In a delightful revelation, Ashwin shared a glimpse into Samson’s off-field persona, describing him as “extremely funny.” He noted the disparity between Samson’s on-field demeanor and his off-field charm, suggesting that many may not be aware of this aspect of the cricketer’s personality.

“Sanju is extremely funny off the field. I am not sure a lot of people understand that or probably know that. It’s a problem of perfection a lot of people battle how you see someone on the ground and how they are off it, it’s completely different,” Ashwin added.

Looking ahead to IPL 2024

As Rajasthan Royals prepare to begin their IPL 2024 campaign against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on March 24 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, fans anticipate witnessing the synergy between Ashwin’s experience and Samson’s leadership on the field.