A sleepy little coastal village near Kovalam has been celebrating ever since 19-year-old Sanju Samson was selected to the Indian cricket team. On Wednesday, the celebrations got bigger as Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy came calling.
Soon after dusk came the news that Chandy will be visiting Samson's home and the crowds began to swell.
Chandy arrived with Sports Minister Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan and other sports officials around 8 p.m.
Samson, known for his simplicity, received Chandy and his entourage along with his parents and his neighbours.
After spending some time with the Samson family, Chandy told the media that Sanju's achievement was an achievement for Kerala.
"I take this opportunity to wish him all the very best and may he shine in his career," Chandy said.
Samson became the fourth cricketer from Kerala to be named in the national squad. On Tuesday, the 19-year-old was included in the 17-member ODI team for the series in England.