Sanju Samsons Heroic 97 Powers India into T20 World Cup Semifinals

In a high-stakes "virtual quarter-final" at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, India pulled off a record-breaking chase against the West Indies to secure their spot in the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals. The star of the night was Sanju Samson, whose unbeaten 97 off 50 balls silenced critics and anchored a historic five-wicket victory on Sunday, March 1.

Result: India won by 5 wickets (with 4 balls to spare). 

Key Highlights

• A Historic Chase: Chasing 196, India achieved their highest-ever successful run chase in T20 World Cup history.

• Samson’s Masterclass: Entering the XI after being sidelined earlier in the tournament, Samson struck 12 fours and 4 sixes. He surpassed Virat Kohli’s record for the highest score by an Indian in a T20 World Cup chase.

• The Finish: Needing 7 runs in the final over, Samson smashed a six and a four off Romario Shepherd to seal the win, falling just three runs short of a century but securing a much larger victory for the nation.

• Windies' Late Charge: Earlier, a late 76-run partnership between Jason Holder and Rovman Powell propelled the West Indies to a formidable 195, but it wasn't enough to stop the "Samson Storm." 

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  What’s Next?

  The "Men in Blue" have officially knocked out the two-time champions and are now heading to Mumbai.

  Semi-Final 2: India vs. England

  Date: Thursday, March 5, 2026

  Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai