Sanju Samson
KOLKATA – In a high-stakes “virtual quarter-final,” Sanju Samson played the innings of a lifetime to guide India to a thrilling five-wicket victory over the West Indies on Sunday. Chasing a formidable target of 196, India reached 199/5 with four balls to spare, securing their place in the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals.
Key Highlights:
- Sanju Samson’s Masterclass: After the early exits of Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan, Samson anchored the chase with an unbeaten 97 off just 50 balls*, featuring 10 boundaries and 5 towering sixes.
- Record-Breaking Performance: Sanju Samson’s 97* is now the highest individual score by an Indian batter in a T20 World Cup chase, surpassing Virat Kohli’s legendary 82* against Australia (2016) and Pakistan (2022).
- Support Acts: Valuable cameos from Tilak Varma (27 off 15) and a late flourish from Hardik Pandya kept the momentum alive, though a tense final over was required to seal the deal.
- The Finish: Needing 7 runs in the final over, Samson leveled the scores with a massive six off the first ball before piercing the infield for a boundary to finish the game in style.
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Match Summary
Earlier in the evening, the West Indies posted a challenging 195/4, powered by aggressive knocks from Roston Chase (40) and unbeaten cameos from Jason Holder (37)* and Rovman Powell (34)*. Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of the Indian bowlers, claiming 2/36.
“I just wanted to stay till the end and see my team through. The atmosphere at Eden Gardens was electric, and it’s a moment I’ll never forget,” said a jubilant Samson after the match.
What’s Next?
The “Men in Blue” have officially knocked the West Indies out of the tournament and are heading to Mumbai. India will face England in the second semi-final at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, March 5.
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