Sanju Samson Returns to Kerala Cricket with Record KCL Signing

Sanju Samson Returns to Kerala Cricket with Record KCL Signing

Sanju Samson has made a high-profile return to Kerala’s domestic cricket circuit, signing with Kochi Blue Tigers for a record-breaking INR 26.60 lakh in the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) auction. This marks his first competitive appearance since the conclusion of IPL 2025, and his first outing under the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) umbrella since his controversial exclusion from the Vijay Hazare Trophy squad last season.

Despite the previous controversy, Samson remains one of Kerala’s most popular and influential cricketers. His omission from last year’s Vijay Hazare Trophy—reportedly for missing a preparatory camp—had sparked debate. While the KCA maintained it was a disciplinary move to set a precedent, Samson had claimed he had formally requested to skip the camp due to prior commitments.

Now returning as both a player and the brand ambassador of the league, Samson's presence is expected to boost the league's profile significantly. He had missed the inaugural KCL season due to international duties and was withdrawn from the auction after being granted a break by the KCA.

The 2025 KCL auction saw competitive bidding, with wicketkeeper-batter Vishnu Vinod, formerly with Mumbai Indians, becoming the second-highest pick at INR 13.8 lakh. Veteran allrounder Jalaj Saxena followed at INR 12.6 lakh.

Teenage spin sensation Vignesh Puthur also drew attention ahead of the league's second season. After making headlines in IPL 2025—where he was signed by Mumbai Indians for INR 30 lakh following impressive KCL trials—Puthur was retained by Alleppey Ripples for INR 3.75 lakh. This will be his first match action since an injury cut short his IPL debut season, where he claimed six wickets in five games.

Sanju Samson, who struck three T20I centuries earlier this year against Bangladesh and South Africa, is currently among India's top T20I openers. His return to Kerala domestic cricket adds star power and renewed anticipation ahead of KCL’s second season.

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