In what was going to be one of the greatest individual performances ever seen in T20 World Cup history, Sanju Samson played the innings of his life to take India to a memorable five-wicket win over the West Indies. Following an intimidating target of 196, Samson’s unbeaten 97 off 50 balls helped keep champions defending their title on the books in a blockbuster semifinal against England.
The Chase: Samson Set a Record For Kohli
India’s pursuit of 196 their top-ever successful chase in T20 World Cup history began on a rocky note. Openers Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan bowed away early, leaving India scrambling across the powerplay. But showing up at No. 3, Sanju Samson assumed control of the narrative. Samson smashed 12 fours and 4 sixes combining raw power and surgical precision. In the process, he went on to break Virat Kohli’s long record for the highest single score by an Indian in a T20 World Cup run-chase.
Key Partnerships and Late Drama
He found allies in skipper Suryakumar Yadav and the young Tilak Varma, constructing stands that kept the required run rate in reach. Samson remained ice-cool, although there was a late hiccup, after Hardik Pandya stumbled at the 19th over. With 7 runs left off the final over needed, Samson closed the game with 4 more balls left and lofted Romario Shepherd over mid-on to send wild celebrations from the Eden Gardens.
West Indies' Valiant Effort
Earlier in the night, the West Indies scored a commanding 195/4. Their innings were buoyed by a late-order punch from Jason Holder (37)* and Rovman Powell (34)*, who added 76 runs in the final six overs. Jasprit Bumrah once again shone with the ball for India, returning 2/36.
- Result: India won by 5 wickets.
- Player of the Match: Sanju Samson.
What’s Next for Team India?
This victory results in India finishing in the second place of Super 8 Group 1. They will then face England in the second semifinal in the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, on March 5, 2026.
