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Photograph: (Source: @BCCI X)
Sanju Samson, who delivered when it counted most in a virtual knockout against the West Indies, had a rare attitude and quality. India was under tremendous pressure to reach 196, but Samson remained composed and led his team home with four balls remaining on 97, remaining undefeated. The passionate batter fell to his knees as India (199/5) defeated West Indies (195/4) by five wickets to guarantee a spot in the semi-finals. This moment encapsulated how unique and significant this innings was for him at this point in his career.
After an exciting five-wicket victory against the West Indies in a virtual quarterfinal at Eden Gardens on Sunday, India advanced to the ICC Men's T20 World Cup semifinals. India maintained their composure to finish on 199/5 in 19.2 overs while chasing a 196 with a semi-final berth on the line. Rovman Powell and Jason Holder's late fireworks helped the Windies record 195/4 earlier. Even after Jasprit Bumrah scored two runs in the middle overs, India had to mount the most ambitious chase in T20 World Cup history.
India vs West Indies Match 52 Player of the Match:
The Way every players hugging & appreciating Sanju Samson was priceless. ♥️🥹
— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) March 1, 2026
- Sanju Samson, The Hero!
pic.twitter.com/44BFD0VkFK
A career-defining 97* off just 50 balls was scored by Sanju Samson, who had lost his spot before the competition and had patiently waited for his opportunity. Despite wickets falling all around him, his knock, which featured 12 fours and four sixes, kept India in the match as the asking rate increased. Samson completed it spectacularly with seven required off the last over. India will now play England in the semifinals.
Sanju Samson unleashed the knock of his life in a simulated quarterfinal under tremendous duress. The wicketkeeper-batter, who had been waiting years for a pivotal moment on the international scene, reached a very personal milestone with his undefeated 97, which not only propelled India into the semi-final. It was more than simply a game-winning knock for the Kerala batsman; it was the realisation of a long-time desire to play for India and a moment he had eagerly anticipated from the sidelines.
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