After The End Of IPL 2025, Told Myself That Boys And RR Ready To Play Without Me, Says Samson
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson has opened up about his blockbuster trade from Rajasthan Royals to Chennai Super Kings before IPL 2026 began, stating that he felt his long-standing franchise was finally ready to transition into a new phase without him. Samson spent 11 years with RR and captained them for five seasons, before moving to CSK through a high-profile trade ahead of IPL 2026. Moving on from RR was a very big decision for me. I believe that after playing for a team for some time, you start to feel like this is your team and nobody can remove you. But I always had the awareness that there is a limited time for everyone at one place. You do your part, and you move out and after the end of IPL 2025, a point came when I felt that I should move on. I told myself that the boys are ready, and RR is ready to play without Sanju Samson. That is when I thought of leaving, Samson said on JioStar's 'Superstars. Explaining his choice to join CSK, Samson highlighted the influence of MS Dhoni and current skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad. And when you think of moving out, you wonder where to go and which team to join. There were two or three options at that time. But honestly, CSK, Mahi bhai's influence, the franchise itself, and my friends there, especially Ruturaj, meant I had great connections. Based on what I had heard about CSK from other players, I felt that this franchise was my type. If I go there, it will be very good for me. I had wished for that, but a trade is a tricky thing. I want to go there, but do they want me? And the original team needs to get what they want in return. Everyone has to agree. It was a major turning point. Luckily, I ended up in CSK. It was a great feeling, he added. While his move to CSK was fueled by a desire to share the field with his childhood idol, Dhoni's fitness issues meant he didnt play in IPL 2026. In turn, it has temporarily delayed Samsons dream of sharing a partnership with him in CSK colours. When I was in school, Mahi bhai had just gotten into the Indian team. The way he carried himself and his aggressive batting style really attracted me. I started following him closely. He used to appear in the ads, and I would cut out his picture and stick it in my diary. Every kid has an idol, and Mahi bhai was mine. As a child, I used to watch India play every day. Mahi bhai would be captaining and winning matches. I would go to sleep thinking, 'I have to play one day too.' I used to dream of batting with him, building a partnership, and fielding alongside him. Now, I have joined CSK. I felt like destiny had brought me here, and I would finally get to play with him. But unfortunately, he wasn't fit this time. He had a calf injury towards the end. But the dream is still alive. Let's see what happens next year, he remarked. Recalling his early days in the IPL, Samson credited former India pacer S Sreesanth for forcefully pushing his case during the RR trials when he was just a teenager. Sreesanth bhai is a very generous person. In the Kerala dressing room, when I was young, I used to see him take five or six players every year to the Rajasthan Royals trials. At that time, I was dropped from the Kerala team because I wasn't scoring runs. Sree bhai came down to play a crucial Ranji Trophy match. He called our secretary, TC Mathew sir, and said, 'I want Sanju in the team.' Mathew sir replied, 'He is not performing, why should we take him?' But Sree bhai insisted, 'No, bring him. I'll make him perform.' I was about 16 years-old then. I scored 122 in the first innings and 51 in the second. After the match, Sree bhai took me to the trial in Jaipur. Rahul Dravid sir came to meet me for the first time. Right in front of him, Sree bhai started hyping me up. He said, 'Rahul bhai, look at this boy. He has hit me for a lot of runs. He hit sixes, did this, did that.' I was already under pressure, and he made up a lot of stories there for me. But somehow, I managed to hit a few sixes after that, he recalled. Though Dravid promised him an opportunity, Samson had to bide his time on the bench during the 2013 season, which he used as a massive learning curve by maintaining a personal diary of advice from legends. Rahul sir was impressed with my performance in the trials, and he brought me into the Rajasthan Royals setup. He told me, 'I will make you play. In this team, I can promise you that you will get a chance. In other teams, I am not sure, but here I will give you an opportunity.' I did well in the trials and also performed for Kerala in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. In the first practice match before the IPL, Rahul sir gave me a game, but I didn't do well. Still, he had promised me a chance. But when the playing XI was announced for the first match, my name was not there. However, that turned out to be a blessing in disguise. I sat out for about five or six games. I used to go and talk to Rahul sir every day for about half an hour. I asked him how to handle pressure. I was picking the brains of all the big players in those first six games. Shane Watson was there, Rahul sir, Ajinkya Rahane, Brad Hodge, all big names. I was just an 18-year-old kid asking them questions. I had a small diary. I would ask them questions, go back to my room, and write down their answers. I noted down how I should try and play if I got a match, he said. Samsons big IPL break eventually came due to an unfortunate injury to regular keeper Dishant Yagnik, though it ended with a quick reality check. After the first six games, I finally gathered the courage to ask Rahul bhai why I wasn't playing when he had promised me. He calmly explained that I needed to be patient and that my time would come. I sat out for about five or six games. I used to go and talk to Rahul sir every day for about half an hour. I asked him how to handle pressure. I was picking the brains of all the big players in those first six games. Shane Watson was there, Rahul sir, Ajinkya Rahane, Brad Hodge, all big names. I was just an 18-year-old kid asking them questions. I had a small diary. I would ask them questions, go back to my room, and write down their answers. I noted down how I should try and play if I got a match, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So, they played me against Punjab, which was my debut in the IPL in 2013, and I won that game for the team. It was my first match. I scored 27 not out batting at number 6. I also got three-four dismissals while keeping the wickets. But in the next match, Dishant bhai was fit again, and I was dropped, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Kerala High Court Pauses Waqf Board Functioning Over Composition Row
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Soumen Sen and Justice V.M. Shyamkumar passed the interim order while hearing petitions filed by BJP leader Shaun George and the Assembly of Christian Trust Services (ACTS).
Kerala BJP Faces Allegations of Election Fund Irregularities, Leadership Launches Probe
Chandrasekhar is expected to arrive in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday
Mass fish kill: Two years on, Periyar fishers await compensation
Fishermen have urged the government to consider extending due compensation to the fisherfolk as their daily earnings were hit following the contamination of the river
Monsoon season power crisis: Power curbs likely to continue in Kerala
Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph said that the State is currently facing a 500 MW to 600 MW deficit in availability
New damselfly species discovered in Keralas Western Ghats
First new Lestesspecies from the Western Ghats since 1929
Lack of rains, low water levels in dams resulting in power cuts in Kerala: Electricity Minister
Kerala's power cuts are increasing due to low rainfall and rising temperatures. The state must also return borrowed power, prolonging the current restrictions. Central government consumption limits also impact Kerala's power availability. The government is exploring battery storage for solar power, which will take time. Discussions on a nuclear power station are ongoing with stakeholders for future benefits.
Kerala Politicians Join FIFA World Cup Final Frenzy
Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala lauded Messi's leadership, saying the Argentine captain repeatedly proves his ability to change the course of a match when defeat appears inevitable
'Pallichattambi' OTT: When and where to stream
The Malayalam film Pallichattambi will soon be available for streaming. It will premiere on OTT starting from July twenty-fourth. This period action drama is set in Kerala during nineteen fifty-eight. The story follows Krishna Pillai, a rowdy whose life changes significantly. Prithviraj Sukumaran plays a key antagonist in the narrative.
Low water level in Mullaperiyar raising concern in both States
The low storage impacts not only Kerala but also neighbouring districts in Tamil Nadu; it has hit farming activities and may soon pose a threat to tourism and drinking water distribution in the Kumily and Chakkupallom panchayats
Excise targets drug peddlers as dead drop trend soars in Kochi
Kerala High Court prohibits political events at Thekkinkadu Maidan in Thrissur
Kerala Congress MLA receives fake call offering ministerial berth for money
Congress MLA Vidya Balakrishnan reported a bribe offer for a ministerial position. A caller claiming to be from the party high command made the proposition. The MLA immediately filed a police complaint after receiving the WhatsApp call. The Kozhikode Cyber Cell has now launched an investigation into this matter. She informed the Congress leadership about the incident as per their direction.
Tamil Nadu Supports Keralas Anti-Drug Campaign, Promises Increased Border Surveillance
Chennai, July 15: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay assured full support for Keralas intensified anti-drug campaign during a meeting with Keralas Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala on Wednesday. The primary aim of this meeting was to strengthen coordination between the states, particularly along the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, to combat drug trafficking and distribution. Speaking ... Read more Tamil Nadu Supports Keralas Anti-Drug Campaign, Promises Increased Border Surveillance
Fishers oppose deep-sea fishing by large vessels
Kerala High Court seeks reports on whether cheaper alternative can substitute patented cancer drug
Two persons arrested for possession of country made guns in Vellore
The gang procured the guns from acquaintances in Kerala for hunting purposes
Kerala CM VD Satheesan Addresses Allegations of BJP Fund Misuse
Thiruvananthapuram, July 15: Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan stated on Wednesday that the state government has not yet received any formal complaints regarding the alleged misuse of BJP election funds. He indicated that further action would only be possible if an official complaint is filed. During a press conference following a cabinet meeting, he responded ... Read more Kerala CM VD Satheesan Addresses Allegations of BJP Fund Misuse
Clamour for new police station at Vyttila grows louder
Kerala High Court allows Tenny Joppan to be removed as accused in solar scam case
Tata, Singapores Changi Airport to invest in Kerala, says Chief Minister Satheesan
At the Kerala Samudra Mission 2026 seminar in Thiruvananthapuram, Satheesan announced that the Tata Group is seeking State approval for a 10,000 crore investment in shipbuilding. He also revealed Singapores Changi Airports interest in aviation-related investments in the state.
Kerala Muslim Jamaat seeks action over death threat against PM
9-year-old boy dies during surgery at Kasaragod General Hospital
Govt. should protect States interest in Vizhinjam, says Pinarayi
He says instead of claiming that the government had no stake in the concessionaire company, Chief Minister should state the governments commitment to protecting the port rather than allowing it to be handed over to corporate interests
Farmers told to adopt alternative methods to counter climate change
Migrant worker found dead in Kannur, brother-in-law arrested
Hospital in Kannur agrees to sign wage pact after nurses intensify protest
Kerala HC halts major functions of Waqf Board
PM SHRI scheme an example of subverting the Constitution, says K. Satchidanandan
Pothundy twin murder: prosecution seeks death penalty for Chenthamara
Additional District and Sessions Court-IV Judge Kenneth George to pronounce sentence on July 16 after considering mitigation report submitted by DLSA
Samatha honours deep-sea diver Athulya with Sagara Award
Keralas government hospitals face a shortage of specialist doctors
Over 280 specialist doctor posts remain vacant in government hospitals, according to RTI data; more than 50 hospitals with delivery points lack adequate teams of gynaecologists, paediatricians and anaesthetists; doctors association calls for urgent recruitment, creation of more posts and faster promotions
The HinduHome Expo to begin on July 17
Kerala CM V.D. Satheesan says he did not refuse to meet NSS leadership
Satheesan says he had a very cordial conversation with G. Sukumaran Nair and had agreed to meet him.
LDF govt. waived 219-cr. penalty on Adani Group for Vizhinjam port delay, says Satheesan
He says the concession agreement had a clause which required the Adani Group to pay 12 lakh per day to the government in the event of delays. For five years, the penalty comes to 219 crore
A cathedral revives debate on Keralas unique church architecture
The newly renovated St. Marys Orthodox Cathedral in Puthiyakavu, Mavelikara, is set to be consecrated on July 17 and 18. Established in AD 943, the cathedral blends Portuguese Baroque and traditional Kerala designs, showcasing a 2,000-year cultural evolution among Saint Thomas Christians.
Call to treat waste management as a global concern, not a local issue
Development activities should be planned and implemented to benefit both present and future generations, says Kerala Sastra Sahitya Parishad president
Technical committee recommends new systems for strengthening LSGD Engineering wing
SHRC directs Finance Secretary to clear welfare pension arrears of construction workers
Kerala HC reserves order on apology tendered by Cashew department Secretary
Court asks K. Biju to apologise after the order issued by him giving sanction to prosecute two former officials of the KSCDC allegedly made accusatory remarks against the judiciary
ESIC nursing officers begin black badge protest
The nursing officers are protesting against what they describe as illegal, arbitrary and large-scale mandatory transfers implemented under the Annual General Transfer (AGT)-2026.
Fake IT emails target Kerala chitty firms; association seeks police crackdown on cyber fraud
All Kerala Chitty Foremens Association says fraudsters have been sending emails, pretending to be Income Tax officials, demanding that institutions submit key financial records and other confidential documents within three days, warning of legal action and penalties for non-compliance
Kerala Bird Atlas 2.0 launched
The second edition of the citizen science initiative will be done twice a year, from mid July to mid September, and from mid January to mid March.
Elathur MLA Vidya Balakrishnan, who got the call, filed a complaint with the Kozhikode Cyber Cell, prompting a detailed probe into the fraud: Reports
KC Joseph and Benny Behanan testify in solar conspiracy case
Special investigation team expanded in PSC exam irregularities case
Seven members appointed, taking the strength of the team to 10. Inspector General Ajeetha Begum heads the team
NSS chief reiterates claim of being denied meeting with Kerala CM Satheesan
Vijay, Mohanlal To Share Stage For Anti-Drug Campaign: Kerala Minister
The announcement came after Chennithala discussed closer cooperation with Vijay to tackle drug trafficking across the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border.
Digi Yatra cannot insist on Aadhaar as proof of identity, says Kerala HC
Kerala's iHUB Robotics is teaching robots to see, act, and understand
This Ernakulam-based deeptech startup builds humanoids from scratch in its Kochi facility, and is now shipping them to the Gulf.
M. Hamdullah Sayeed highlights the financial struggles islanders face when seeking treatment in Kerala. He calls for a dedicated help desk at local hospitals, improved vessel services from Beypore, and measures to combat rising drug trafficking.
An anthem for a vanishing craft: Thazhappattu makes it to school curriculum
Screwpine art, which involves transforming simple leaves into green, sustainable thazhappas (mats) a craft that was once a thriving cottage industry in Thazhava but has slowly declined due to modern challenges receives a significant tribute in the form of Thazhappattu, a song written by Ani Mank.
Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala meets Tamil Nadu CM Vijay, discusses on Operation Toofan
The Kerala Minister calls for coordinated efforts to eradicate drug menace
Construction worker dies of asphyxiation in Kozhikode
Another man, who attempted to rescue the victim and fell unconcious inside the tank, was pulled out alive by the rescue squad members and admitted to a nearby hospital.
Who is Anil Menon: The NASA astronaut with Kerala roots
NASA astronaut Anil Menon has begun his first mission to the International Space Station aboard the Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft. Born to an Indian father from Kerala and a Ukrainian mother, Menon has had a remarkable journey from emergency medicine and military service to space exploration. Heres a look at his career, his Indian roots, and the mission ahead.
Operation Toofan: Kerala, Tamil Nadu join forces to boost anti-drug drive
Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala meets Tamil Nadu CM C. Joseph Vijay in Chennai seeking support for States ongoing anti-drug campaign
Kerala plans to start electric boat service through Parvathy Puthanar ahead of Onam
The initiative, spearheaded by the Transport department, aims to revitalise the 18th-century waterway as part of the larger KovalamBekal National Waterway project, providing a scenic route for commuters and tourists alike.
Complaint alleged organised malicious campaign by her fellow actors
Kerala backs Adani Port despite objecting to stake sale
A panel led by the states top bureaucrat is reviewing the proposal to ensure Keralas interests are protected and assess whether the transaction could give MSC excessive control over the project
Tata to Invest $1 Billion in Shipbuilding in Kerala: CM Satheesan
The state government is favorably considering the proposal and it is likely to approve it within a month, he added
'Operation Toofan': Tamil Nadu CM Vijay to join actor Mohanlal for anti-drug awareness event
Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has extended a warm invitation to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, who accepted and is set to join actor Mohanlal at an anti-drug awareness event. As the brand ambassador for Kerala's anti-drug initiative, Mohanlals association, combined with Vijay's presence, aims to amplify awareness regarding drug misuse, particularly among the youth. The Chief Minister pledged complete support for the program.
Kerala Forest Department Investigates Mohanlals Elephant Tusk Disclosure
Kochi, July 15: The Kerala Forest Department has taken action following the revelation by Malayalam superstar Mohanlal that he possesses five pairs of elephant tusks, totaling ten tusks. The department has requested the actor to provide all documents and detailed information regarding the three additional pairs of tusks he recently disclosed. Mohanlal informed the Forest ... Read more Kerala Forest Department Investigates Mohanlals Elephant Tusk Disclosure
Kerala Cabinet clears proposal to create Business Policy and Process Re-engineering Cell
In order to foster coordination among government departments and avoid delays in implementation of projects
Mookambika temple visit my personal right, not soft Hindutva, says Kerala CM V.D. Satheesan
Satheesan asserts that his faith is a personal matter protected by the Constitution
DMRC's high-speed rail project proposal incomplete according to expert panel: Kerala CM
An expert panel found the high-speed rail proposal incomplete and not viable. The panel recommended against proceeding with land demarcation or acquisition now. It highlighted the absence of social and environmental impact assessments. The proposal also lacked a sound economic model and logistics component. The government will examine all recommendations before making a final decision.
Vizhinjam: Satheesan accuses previous LDF of waiving Rs 219 cr penalty
Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan rejected allegations regarding the Vizhinjam port stake transfer. He stated the government has not yet decided on the proposed share transfer. The Chief Minister accused the previous LDF government of waiving a Rs 219 crore penalty. This penalty was for delays in the Vizhinjam Seaport project's completion. The government will protect Kerala's interests before any decision is made.
Kuwait fire: Two victims from Keralas Malappuram district
Bodies of M.P. Bahuleyan, 36, from Pulamanthol, and Nooh from Koottai, Tirur, were identified on June 12 night
Kerala CM defends government pleader postings, says AG was consulted and competence assessed
Satheesan says the two names that were at the centre of the row over SFI and ABVP links were among the names recommended by both Kerala committee and High Court unit of Indian Lawyers Congress
Kerala Tragedy: 3-Year-Old Boy Dies After Choking on Peanut in Malappuram
A three-year-old boy died in Kerala's Malappuram after choking on a peanut while eating a snack at home. The child was rushed to hospital but could not be saved.
Tata eyes 10,000 cr shipbuilding investment in Kerala, says CM V.D. Satheesan
The investment will add a new line of business for the $180-billion conglomerate that already makes coffee to luxury cars and steel products to smartphones
A Kerala consumer commission has ordered Flipkart, Samsung, its authorised service centre, and the third-party seller to jointly either repair a defective Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra or refund Rs 1 lakh to the buyer. The phone developed overheating issues within 14 days of delivery, but every party involved tried to shift responsibility onto someone else.
Tata Group to invest $1 billion in shipbuilding, says Kerala CM V. D. Satheesan
Tata Group plans a significant 100 billion rupee investment in Kerala's shipbuilding sector. The state government is favorably considering the proposal and expects approval within a month. This move marks a new business line for the conglomerate, expanding its diverse interests. India aims to rapidly ramp up its shipbuilding capacity and strengthen global maritime trade. Kerala also seeks to expand its maritime value chain near key ports.
HC says courts must look for oral, documentary or circumstantial evidence which can be used to infer if gold or money was entrusted to the husband or his relatives, or was misappropriated by them
Kerala MLA Alleges Scam Call Offering Ministerial Post for Rs 3 Crore
Police have launched an investigation
Kerala govt plans PPP model for J.C. Daniel international film city proposed in revised Budget
Government considering multiple locations in Ernakulam to establish its ambitious venture aimed at creating a one-stop destination for film shooting
Chennithala to Meet TN CM Vijay to Seek Support for Operation Toofan
Launched in June 2026, 'Operation Toofan: The Narco Hunt' has already resulted in thousands of arrests across Kerala
Kerala Plus One Result 2026 Expected Today: Know How To Check Scorecard
Kerala Plus One Result 2026 is expected to be declared today. Check the latest DHSE Kerala Class 11 result update, official websites, download steps and scorecard details.
The Directorate of Higher Secondary Education in Kerala will announce Plus One results today. Students can check their scores on the official results portal online. They must achieve 35% marks in each subject to pass. Those who do not pass can appear for improvement examinations. This allows students to continue their academic progression without delay.
The Directorate of Higher Secondary Education in Kerala will announce Plus One results today. Students can check their scores on the official results portal online. They must achieve 35% marks in each subject to pass. Those who do not pass can appear for improvement examinations. This allows students to continue their academic progression without delay.
Controversial Audio Clip Linked to 2018 Kerala Floods Under Crime Branch Investigation
Thiruvananthapuram, July 15: The Kerala government has ordered a Crime Branch investigation into a controversial audio clip. This clip allegedly features the voice of former Electricity Minister K. Krishnankutty, claiming that the devastating floods of 2018 during Pinarayi Vijayans tenure were the result of a criminal conspiracy and human intervention. Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala initiated ... Read more Controversial Audio Clip Linked to 2018 Kerala Floods Under Crime Branch Investigation
Assessing the survey reports, the court noted that approximately 84 containers were partially embedded in the seabed, and several had structural damage
Kerala-Origin NASA Astronaut Anil Menon, Two Others Reach ISS
Menon's father, K P Shankaran Menon, hails from Ottapalam in Kerala's Palakkad district. His mother, Elizabeth, is an immigrant from Ukraine to America
Southwest Monsoon Weakens in Southern India, Rainfall Expected to Increase After July 17
New Delhi, July 15: The southwest monsoon is currently weak across southern peninsular India, leading to below-average rainfall in several states. According to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai, the ongoing weather conditions have disrupted monsoon activities in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and surrounding areas. However, an improvement in the monsoon ... Read more Southwest Monsoon Weakens in Southern India, Rainfall Expected to Increase After July 17
The Directorate of Higher Secondary Education (DHSE), Kerala, is expected to declare the Plus One (Class 11) Result 2026 on July 15. Students can access their scorecards online using their registration number and date of birth. Candidates must secure at least 35 per cent marks to qualify for promotion, while unsuccessful students can appear for the SAY/Improvement examinations.
Eatery in Kochi shut down after nearly 50 hit by suspected food poisoning
Man held on charge of attempted sexual assault in Perumbavoor
GTECH promises platform to redeploy employees hit by CorroHealth lay-offs
Kerala celebrates NASA astronaut Anil Menons historic journey to ISS
