KOLKATA, India — In a high-stakes Super Eights finale at a packed Eden Gardens, Sanju Samson delivered a masterclass innings to secure India’s place in the T20 World Cup semi-finals. His explosive unbeaten 97 runs from just 50 balls propelled the defending champions to a thrilling five-wicket victory over the West Indies, setting up a decisive clash against England.
The electrifying showdown saw India chasing a formidable target of 196 after the West Indies mounted a brutal late assault. Jason Holder (37* off 22) and Rovman Powell (34* off 19) unleashed 76 runs in an unbroken fifth-wicket partnership, hammering 70 runs in the final five overs to finish at 195-4.
India’s response began shakily with two early wickets, but Samson’s commanding presence at the crease stabilized the innings. Partnering with captain Suryakumar Yadav (18) for a crucial 58-run third-wicket stand, and later with Tilak Varma (27 off 15), Samson anchored the chase under immense pressure. Despite losing Hardik Pandya late in the innings, India clinched victory with four balls remaining, triggering jubilant celebrations among the 67,000-strong crowd.
The West Indies, employing strategic changes by promoting Test captain Roston Chase (40) to open alongside T20 skipper Shai Hope (32), showed initial promise. However, India’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah and spinner Varun Chakravarthy, claimed key wickets at critical moments. India’s fielding performance was notably subpar, with three dropped catches offering the West Indies reprieves.
South Africa, maintaining an unbeaten tournament record, secured their semi-final berth earlier by defeating Zimbabwe. They will face New Zealand in Kolkata on Wednesday, while India advances to challenge England. The tournament culminates with the final in Ahmedabad next Sunday.