From Kerala to Canada: Joji Varghese’s Inspiring Encounter with Sanju Samson Ahead of T20 World Cup

In a remarkable journey from Kerala to Canada, Joji Varghese has turned his dreams into reality. After relocating to Canada in 2017 for a better future for his children, Joji has now found himself working with Cricket Canada as a massage therapist. His long-held aspiration of meeting his favorite cricketer, Sanju Samson, came true recently when both the Indian and Canadian teams practiced at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. This emotional encounter marked a significant milestone in Joji’s life, blending his passion for cricket with his professional achievements.

Joji’s Path to Canada

Joji Varghese’s journey began in Thiruvananthapuram, where he worked as a physical education teacher. In 2017, he made the life-changing decision to move to Canada, driven by the desire to secure a brighter future for his children. His wife was working as a nurse in Italy, but language barriers made their situation challenging. To qualify for Canadian permanent residency, Joji enrolled in a six-month massage therapy course, which ultimately paved the way for his new life in Brampton, near Toronto.

Once settled, Joji quickly established himself as a skilled massage therapist. His dedication and expertise led him to opportunities within the cricket community, culminating in a role with Cricket Canada. As he prepared for the T20 World Cup 2026 in India, Joji reflected on his journey, noting that he had achieved nearly all his dreams, save for one: meeting Sanju Samson, a cricketer he had admired from afar.

A Dream Come True

The moment Joji had long awaited arrived when the Indian and Canadian cricket teams were scheduled to practice at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The two teams shared the facility at different times, allowing Joji the chance to meet his idol. Overwhelmed with emotion, he described the encounter as a dream come true. Joji recalled watching Sanju play during his college days and expressed his excitement about finally meeting him in person.

Their meeting took place after Sanju’s warm-up session, and Joji was struck by the cricketer’s humility and approachability. The two engaged in a heartfelt conversation, with Sanju addressing Joji as “Chetta” and asking about his well-being in a warm, personal manner. Joji shared that Sanju is not only a star in India but also a significant figure in the Canadian cricket community, inspiring many young cricketers and fans.

Joji’s Impact on Canadian Cricket

Joji Varghese’s role extends beyond just working with the Canadian cricket team; he has also collaborated with several international cricketers, including Rassie van der Dussen, Moeen Ali, and Yuvraj Singh. His expertise as a massage therapist has been crucial, especially as the team prepares for competitions in varying climates. Joji emphasized the importance of providing extra care to athletes, particularly in the harsh Canadian winters.

His journey has not only been about personal achievement but also about contributing to the growth of cricket in Canada. Joji noted that Sanju Samson enjoys a massive fan following among the Indian community in Canada, where cricket is a beloved sport. He highlighted how young players often form teams to play cricket on weekends, drawing inspiration from stars like Sanju.

Family and Future Aspirations

Joji’s family life has also evolved since moving to Canada. He and his wife, who initially worked in Italy, now have four children. Joji’s commitment to his family has been a driving force behind his decisions. He explained that the emotional journey of relocating was made easier by the prospects of a better life for his children.

With his wife in the medical field, they both secured permanent residency in Canada, allowing them to focus on their careers while raising their family. Joji’s work with Cricket Canada has opened new doors, and he is excited about the future. As he prepares for the T20 World Cup, he reflects on how far he has come and the dreams he continues to chase, both for himself and his family.

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