Table of Contents
- The ‘Chetta’ Moment That Lit Up Social Media
- Sanju Samson’s Recent Form Crisis
- Why Thiruvananthapuram is More Than Just a Venue
- The Stakes for the Final T20I
- Conclusion: A Homecoming for Redemption
- Sources
The Indian cricket team’s arrival in Thiruvananthapuram was always going to be special. But it was a fleeting, playful moment between two teammates that perfectly captured the emotional weight of what’s to come. As the squad disembarked for the final T20I against New Zealand, captain Suryakumar Yadav turned to the cameras, threw his arms wide, and declared, “Don’t disturb Chetta!”—clearing a path for none other than Sanju Samson, the beloved son of Kerala [[1]].
This lighthearted banter wasn’t just for laughs. It was a public show of faith in a player who desperately needs it. For Sanju Samson, this match at the Greenfield International Stadium is far more than a dead rubber; it’s a high-stakes audition on his home turf, with his legacy and World Cup spot hanging in the balance.
The ‘Chetta’ Moment That Lit Up Social Media
The video of Suryakumar Yadav’s airport antics went viral instantly. The term “Chetta,” a respectful and affectionate Malayalam word for an elder brother, resonated deeply with fans in Kerala and across India. It wasn’t just a nickname; it was a symbol of the unique status Samson holds in his home state [[4]].
By playfully giving Samson the star treatment, SKY did more than crack a joke. He publicly shouldered some of the immense pressure off his vice-captain’s shoulders. In a team environment, such gestures of camaraderie are powerful. They signal unity and trust, reminding everyone that the captain has his back—a crucial morale boost for a player facing intense scrutiny [[6]].
Sanju Samson‘s Recent Form Crisis
The reason this moment carries so much weight is the context of Sanju Samson‘s recent international performances. After a stellar 2024 that saw him crowned the CEAT T20I Batter of the Year, his 2025 has been a story of struggle [[14]].
His T20I stats for the year paint a concerning picture. Across multiple series, he has managed just 222 runs in 11 innings at a meager average of 20.20 and a strike rate of 126.90—well below his usual explosive standards [[19]]. His struggles were particularly evident during the England tour, where he scored a combined 35 runs in four innings [[18]].
For a player of his caliber, known for his elegant strokeplay and ability to dominate from ball one, this dip in form has inevitably led to questions about his place in the starting XI, especially with the T20 World Cup looming on the horizon.
Why Thiruvananthapuram is More Than Just a Venue
Thiruvananthapuram isn’t just another city on the tour itinerary for Sanju Samson. It’s his fortress. The Greenfield International Stadium, often referred to as The Sports Hub, transforms into a cauldron of yellow and red whenever he steps onto the pitch. The crowd’s support is legendary, described as one of the most vibrant in the country [[31]].
This deep connection goes beyond mere fandom. Samson is a local hero, a cult figure whose journey from Kerala to the pinnacle of world cricket is a source of immense state pride [[37]]. When he plays here, he’s not just representing India; he’s playing for every young cricketer in the state who dreams of following in his footsteps. The energy from the stands is a tangible force, a wellspring of confidence that can turn a player’s fortunes around in an instant.
The Stakes for the Final T20I
The fifth T20I against New Zealand, scheduled for January 31, 2026, at the Greenfield International Stadium, presents a perfect storm of opportunity and pressure for Sanju Samson [[21]].
On one hand, the series result is already decided, which theoretically offers a low-pressure environment to experiment and find his rhythm. On the other, the entire cricketing nation will be watching to see if he can answer his critics. A big score in front of his home crowd would be the ultimate statement of intent, a powerful reminder of his class and a massive boost to his confidence heading into the World Cup.
Key factors for his success include:
- Home Advantage: The familiar pitch conditions and overwhelming crowd support are significant psychological advantages.
- Captain’s Backing: Suryakumar Yadav’s public support signals a stable team environment, allowing Samson to play freely.
- A Chance to Reset: With no series pressure, this is the ideal match to shed the baggage of recent failures and start fresh.
For fans, this match is a must-watch. It’s a classic narrative of a hero returning home to reclaim his glory. You can learn more about the strategic importance of home advantage in cricket on the official ICC website.
Conclusion: A Homecoming for Redemption
Suryakumar Yadav’s simple “Don’t disturb Chetta” was more than a viral clip; it was a poignant setup for the main event. Sanju Samson now has the stage, the support, and the opportunity to silence his doubters. All eyes will be on the Greenfield International Stadium to see if the hometown hero can channel the love of his people into a performance that reminds the world why he’s considered one of India’s most gifted batters. This isn’t just a game; it’s a homecoming for redemption.
Sources
- [[1]] NDTV Sports: “Don’t Disturb Chetta”: Suryakumar Yadav Pokes Fun At Sanju Samson Ahead Of 5th New Zealand T20I
- [[4]] NDTV Sports: “Don’t Disturb Chetta”: Suryakumar Yadav Pokes Fun At Sanju Samson Ahead Of 5th New Zealand T20I
- [[6]] Sunday Guardian: IND vs NZ: ‘Please Give Way, Do Not Disturb Chetta’
- [[14]] Rajasthan Royals: CEAT Cricket Awards 2025: Sanju Samson crowned T20I Batter of the Year
- [[18]] Cricwaves: Sanju Samson Player stats in England tour of India, 2025
- [[19]] Cricmetric: Sanju Samson in T20is 2025
- [[21]] Cricbuzz: New Zealand tour of India, 2026 schedule
- [[31]] Facebook: Sanju Samson speaks about the crowd support he recieved in Trivandrum
- [[37]] The Economic Times: The Sanju Samson journey: Kerala’s own cult hero