Indian wicket-keeper batter Sanju Samson praised the positive atmosphere within the Indian cricket team’s dressing room, calling it a key reason behind their unique celebrations after winning the Asia Cup 2025.
Sanju Samson revealed that even without the trophy on the podium, the team’s upbeat environment made the victory feel special. India defeated Pakistan by five wickets in the Asia Cup final on September 28 in Dubai. Following the win, Suryakumar Yadav and his teammates declined to accept the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi during the post-match presentation.
Consequently, an ACC official removed the trophy from the ground, withholding the silverware and medals from the Indian players. Despite this, the Men in Blue celebrated their triumph on the podium, with captain Suryakumar Yadav playfully mimicking lifting an imaginary trophy, joined by his teammates in the joyous moment.
“It was a bit unusual, but our dressing room has a very positive environment,” says Sanju Samson
Speaking at the CEAT Awards Show in Mumbai, Sanju Samson reflected on the trophy-less celebration following India’s loss in the Asia Cup 2025 final. He admitted that while the situation was unusual, the team still celebrated, highlighting the positive atmosphere in their dressing room.
“It was a bit strange, but we actually have a very positive environment in our dressing room. Even if we don’t have a trophy in hand, we celebrate the fact that we have everything else in our hands. That’s exactly what we did,” he said.
Sanju Samson also opened up about his emotional journey in Indian cricket. Last year, he gained widespread attention after scoring three consecutive centuries in T20Is.
“Someone like me, who worked silently and patiently, putting in mental and physical effort despite challenges and obstacles, always focusing on the process and my inner self rather than external noise, finally got the opportunity after a long 10-year wait,” he shared.
“When that chance came, I was able to score three match-winning centuries in just five T20 internationals,” he added.
In the Asia Cup 2025, Samson continued his form by hitting a half-century against Oman and a crucial 39-run knock in the Super Four clash against Sri Lanka. He amassed 132 runs across four innings at a strike rate of 124.52.
Looking ahead, Sanju Samson has been named in India’s squad for the upcoming T20I series against Australia. India will tour Australia for a three-match ODI and five-match T20I series starting October 19, with the T20Is scheduled from October 29 to November 8.