Abu Dhabi: Just a week ago, Rajasthan Royals batsman Sanju Samson’s house was burgled and the thieves were interested in just one thing — the prized trophies and souvenirs that the Kerala star had won from the beginning of his cricket playing days.
Samson, however, is not upset and says he will simply have to win more trophies to replace those he has lost.
“There was no point in getting upset about it or losing sleep over the trophies. The thief broke in and took whatever he wanted,” said Samson. “I feel it will inspire me to win more trophies and that’s what I want to do. Now I want to win more trophies.”
Rajasthan Royals won the opening match against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Samson was of the view that the team has the right credentials to go all the way.
“Last year, if you see, our strong point was batting and certainly we are looking to do well in that department,” he said. “There are some very good overseas players like Steven Smith. He is a fine all-rounder and very effective in the field. He can be very handy lower down the order. So overall, we have a very good team. We have some quality spinners. Rajat Bhatia is a good bowler. Our bowling is equally as good as our batting.”
Royals had a good camp in Mumbai before heading for the UAE and Samson believes it was of great help in becoming acquainted with teammates and the players’ strengths.
“The practise camp was in Mumbai and that was of a good help and the training here has also gone well,” said Samson, who was part of the India under-19 World Cup that was played here in the UAE. “We are getting a feel of the wicket here and can improve with every game.
“Playing here before, in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, is definitely a plus. I’m quite aware of how the wickets behave. One needs to spend sometime on these wickets to get used to the pace. So adjusting to it quickly is a challenge in this format.”
Samson has also found himself being utilised as a part-time wicketkeeper.
“The team wanted me to do that and I was ready,” he said. “So far I have enjoyed it. I wouldn’t mind doing that for the team.”
