Muttiah Muralitharan’s Legacy in Cricket and Sanju Samson’s Rise

By Rohan Mehta / 24.03.2026

How it unfolded

On March 23, 2026, cricket enthusiasts gathered at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai for a memorable session where the legendary Muttiah Muralitharan bowled to the rising star Sanju Samson. This encounter was not just a casual practice; it symbolized the intersection of two generations of cricketing talent. Muralitharan, who retired from international cricket after the 2011 World Cup, is celebrated as one of the greatest bowlers in cricket history, holding the record for the most Test wickets (800), ODI wickets (534), and international wickets (1347).

As Muralitharan donned his iconic jersey, marked with the number 800, he demonstrated why he was considered a batter’s worst nightmare during his playing days in the 1990s and 2000s. Observers noted that while Samson managed to hit a six off one delivery, he was humbled by the spin wizard on several occasions. An onlooker remarked, “It was a fun cricket session but it did show Samson why Murali was a batter’s worst nightmare in the 1990s and 2000s.” This experience was undoubtedly a significant moment for Samson, who is currently one of the brightest talents in cricket.

Sanju Samson’s prowess was on full display during the T20 World Cup 2026, where he was named Player of the Tournament. He scored a remarkable 321 runs in five matches, boasting an impressive average of 80.25 and a strike rate of 199.38. His performance included three half-centuries, with his best score being an unbeaten 97 against the West Indies. This achievement contributed to India winning their third T20 World Cup title, further solidifying Samson’s status as a key player in the national team.

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK), a franchise with which Muralitharan has a storied history, will begin their IPL 2026 campaign on March 30 against the Rajasthan Royals. Muralitharan played a pivotal role in CSK’s success, helping the team secure the IPL title in 2010. His legacy continues to influence the team and its players, including Samson, who is expected to lead CSK’s batting lineup in the upcoming season.

As CSK prepares for the IPL, they also celebrated the induction of former players Suresh Raina and Matthew Hayden into their Hall of Fame, highlighting the franchise’s rich history and commitment to honoring its legends. The presence of Muralitharan during the practice session with Samson serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of past greats on the current generation of players.

Reflecting on the session, an observer noted, “Murali, as he is affectionately known, was at his willy best beating Sanju a couple of times.” This interaction not only showcased Muralitharan’s enduring skill but also provided Samson with valuable insights into facing world-class spin bowling. The experience is one that Samson is likely to carry with him as he continues to develop his game.

As cricket fans look forward to the IPL and the next international season, the legacy of Muttiah Muralitharan remains strong, influencing young players like Sanju Samson. The blend of historical greatness and emerging talent is what keeps the spirit of cricket alive and thriving.