Is Basil Joseph the secret coach? Actor cheekily claims credit for Sanju’s Player of the Tournament win

AHMEDABAD: Ahmedabad became a sea of celebration following India’s T20 final victory against New Zealand, but few were as vocal or as proud as actor-director Basil Joseph. Standing outside the stadium while sporting a number nine jersey emblazoned with Sanju Samson’s name, the filmmaker couldn't hide his excitement over his close friend’s stellar performance. Basil shared that seeing Sanju named Player of the Tournament felt like a personal victory, though he admitted with a grin that his favourite moment of the campaign actually came during the high-stakes run chase against the West Indies earlier in the series.

The conversation took a humorous turn when Basil was asked about the rough patch Sanju faced during the previous tour of New Zealand. When questioned if he had offered the star batsman any words of wisdom during those low moments, Basil cheekily claimed that Sanju had simply followed his instructions to the letter. With a wink to the cameras, he joked that none of his expert advice had gone to waste, perfectly blending his signature wit with the genuine pride he feels for his friend’s success.

Reflecting on the emotional rollercoaster of Sanju’s career, Basil pointed out the stark contrast between the current celebrations and the cold reception the player faced after a difficult game in Thiruvananthapuram. He noted how quickly the tide turns in cricket, observing that the very people who once dismissed Sanju are now the ones cheering loudest. Beyond the friendship, Basil offered a sharp critique of Sanju’s evolution on the field, highlighting how his return has stabilised the batting lineup. He praised Sanju for transforming into a selfless match-finisher who prioritises the team's needs over individual stats, proving that his journey from being "rejected" to becoming a national hero is a testament to his growth.