Sanju Samson delivered one of the finest knocks of his career on Sunday night, guiding the India national cricket team into the semifinals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 with a thrilling victory over the West Indies cricket team at Eden Gardens. In what was effectively a virtual quarterfinal, Samson’s sensational unbeaten 97 powered India to a dramatic five-wicket win while chasing a daunting target of 196.
The wicketkeeper-batter produced a masterclass under pressure, smashing 12 fours and four sixes in a breathtaking innings that kept India alive in the tournament. His 97* is now the highest score by an Indian batter in a successful run chase in T20 World Cup history. India eventually crossed the finish line in the final over with four balls to spare, sparking celebrations both on the field and among the packed Kolkata crowd.
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The climax of the chase was pure drama. With seven runs required from the final over bowled by Romario Shepherd, Samson wasted no time asserting control. He launched the very first ball over the boundary for a towering six, instantly levelling the scores. On the next delivery, he calmly drilled a boundary to seal the victory and send the stadium into a frenzy.
The same mouths that laughed will bow one day. pic.twitter.com/W7u3dAWHqQ
— Beast (@Beast__07_) March 1, 2026
Overcome with emotion, Samson dropped to his knees, crossed his heart, and looked skyward in celebration. As he walked back toward the dressing room, his teammates greeted him with warm embraces. India captain Suryakumar Yadav acknowledged the extraordinary effort by removing his cap in admiration, a gesture that perfectly captured the significance of Samson’s match-winning innings.
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India had entered the contest under pressure after suffering a heavy defeat to South Africa in the Super 8 stage. However, Samson’s heroics in this must-win encounter showcased why the team management continues to back him in big moments.
With momentum now firmly on their side, India will hope Samson carries this form into the knockout stage as they aim to become the first team to successfully defend a T20 World Cup title.
