![Sanju Samson Recreates Virat Kohli’s Iconic MCG Shot [Source: X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1777200528684_Sanju Samson (1).jpg)
Sanju Samson Recreates Virat Kohli’s Iconic MCG Shot [Source: X.com]
Sanju Samson is in excellent form during IPL 2026, and he continues to trouble bowlers with his confident batting. During a match against Gujarat Titans at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, he produced a moment that reminded fans of one of cricket’s most unforgettable shots. Samson recreated a famous stroke originally played by Virat Kohli against Haris Rauf.
To understand the significance of this moment, it is important to revisit that historic night. On October 23, 2022, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, India faced Pakistan in a thrilling T20 World Cup match. At a crucial stage, India needed 28 runs from just 8 balls. The situation looked extremely difficult, and the pressure was clearly rising.
Virat Kohli's iconic shot vs Haris Rauf
During the 19th over, bowled by Haris Rauf, Virat Kohli delivered something extraordinary. On the fifth ball, he struck a powerful six straight down the ground. The delivery was fast and short, traveling above 145 kmph, yet Kohli managed to hit it cleanly with a straight bat.
This shot instantly changed the mood of the game, and Rauf appeared under pressure. The moment became even more special as Virat Kohli followed it up with another six on the final ball of the over.
These shots are often remembered as some of the finest in T20 history, and many fans call it the “Shot of the Century.” Virat Kohli remained unbeaten on 82 runs, leading India to a memorable win, with Ravichandran Ashwin scoring the final run.
Sanju Samson brings back MCG memories
Now, in IPL 2026, Sanju Samson brought back those memories. On a Sunday afternoon, The CSK opener faced Kagiso Rabada and played a very similar shot. Samson, who often admires Kohli and follows his style, showed great confidence at the crease.
Notably, CSK started their innings steadily, with Samson and Ruturaj Gaikwad opening the batting. Samson looked comfortable from the start. In the second over, after already hitting a boundary, he faced a short delivery from Rabada.
Sanju Samson got into position quickly, rose on his toes, and struck the ball cleanly over mid-off for another four. The timing and control of the shot stood out, and it closely resembled Kohli’s famous stroke.
The reaction from Rabada added to the moment. As soon as Sanju Samson played the shot, Rabada looked surprised. He glanced at the pitch and then towards the ball, clearly impressed by what he had just witnessed.
Watch the video here:
Sanju Samson achieves a big milestone
In addition, Samson also reached an important milestone. He completed 5000 runs in the IPL, becoming the 10th player overall and the 8th Indian to achieve this feat. This shows his consistency and contribution over the years.
Even though Samson got out later for 11 runs off 15 balls in that match, his overall performance in the season has been strong. After a slow start, he made a powerful comeback with an unbeaten 115 against Delhi Capitals.
Since then, he has continued to score runs regularly. So far, the Kerala batter has accumulated 304 runs in 8 innings, maintaining an impressive strike rate of 169.83.
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