Samit Dravid makes his own way in the Maharaja Trophy as fans see shades of Rahul Dravid

Samit Dravid is steadily carving out his own identity, even as cricket fans still see shades of his legendary father Rahul Dravid in his bat. Since his Maharaja Trophy debut, videos of the youngster’s compact stance, poise in the crease and textbook strokeplay have gone viral on social media, with many fans comparing his technique to Rahul’s and even dubbing him the ‘Junior Wall’.

The son of the former Indian captain and head coach produced another assured performance in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026 as Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters scored a blistering 32 off 23 balls in a thrilling two-run win over Hubli Tigers at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground on Wednesday, July 1, before helping 2002 Blasters fast in Hubning. Tigers to 201/7 in a nail-biting contest.

Batting in the middle order, the 20-year-old mixed composure with intent and smashed six boundaries during his stay. Although Bengaluru Blasters’ Nischith Rao won the Man of the Match award, Samit’s contribution proved crucial in building the momentum that took his side past the 200-run mark.

In seven matches in the tournament, Samit batted in four innings, scoring 112 runs at an average of 28 and a strike rate of 138.27. His highest score of 39 was against Coastal Kings Mangaluru at the Srikantadatta Narasimha Raja Wadeyar Ground in Mysore.

GETTING OUT OF RAHUL DRAVID’S SHADOW

Being the son of one of India’s greatest Test batsmen inevitably comes with expectations, but Samit has remained grounded and steadily progressed through Karnataka’s age-group system. Instead of relying on his famous surname, he got opportunities with Karnataka and in the Maharaja Trophy through consistent performances in junior cricket.

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While his batting has invited comparisons with Rahul’s classic technique, Samit’s game seems better suited to the demands of modern white-ball cricket. The teenager has shown a positive attitude, a willingness to play his shots and the confidence to step up when needed, while still displaying the composure associated with his father.

Replacing the Karnataka Premier League in 2022, the Maharaja Trophy has evolved into one of the premier domestic T20 competitions in India. With six franchises and several established cricketers, Karnataka serves as an important platform for up-and-coming players hoping to catch the eye of IPL scouts and national selectors.

Representing Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters has already exposed Samit to high-pressure situations early in his career. While his knock against Hubli Tigers was not a title-winning half-century, it highlighted his temperament, maturity and ability to make valuable contributions in tight matches.

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Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

02 Jul 2026 19:14 IST