Sanju Samson produced one of the most memorable innings of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, smashing an unbeaten 97 to guide India into the semifinals in a thrilling Super 8 clash against the West Indies at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. With the winner advancing to the last four, Samson’s display under pressure proved decisive and gave fans plenty to celebrate.
The West Indies posted a competitive total of 195/4, bolstered by solid contributions from their experienced batters. Facing a challenging target in a virtual quarterfinal match, India needed a strong response to keep their title defence alive.
Cometh the hour, cometh Sanju Samson! 🫡
— BCCI (@BCCI) March 1, 2026
9⃣7⃣*(50) – A knock for the ages to take #TeamIndia into the semi-finals 👏
Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/ur4pr8Bi3K#T20WorldCup | #MenInBlue | #INDvWI | @IamSanjuSamson pic.twitter.com/ftJRp2wMTE
India’s innings got off to a shaky start, but Samson kept the chase alive with controlled aggression. His 97 runs came off just 50 balls, featuring a mix of powerful shots and smart running between the wickets. Regular boundaries and well-timed big hits ensured India stayed in the hunt right through the run chase.
Support came from key contributions down the order, helping maintain momentum as the required run rate climbed. While Samson anchored the effort, other batters chipped in at crucial moments to keep India moving toward the target.
📸📸
— BCCI (@BCCI) March 1, 2026
A memorable night at Eden Gardens 🥳#TeamIndia register their highest successful chase in ICC Men's T20 World Cups ✅
Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/ur4pr8Bi3K#T20WorldCup | #MenInBlue | #INDvWI pic.twitter.com/lEpN4LIWXU
In the end, India reached 199/5 with four balls to spare, securing a dramatic five-wicket win that confirms their place in the T20 World Cup semifinals. The result sets up an exciting last four clash against England, to be played in Mumbai, as India looks to continue its push for another title.
Samson’s innings also set new benchmarks, surpassing previous Indian individual records in successful World Cup chases and drawing praise from former greats and fans alike for its timing and impact.
BIG occasion 🤝 BIG knock
— BCCI (@BCCI) March 1, 2026
Sanju Samson is adjudged the Player of the Match at the Eden Gardens ✨
Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/ur4pr8Bi3K#TeamIndia | #T20WorldCup | #MenInBlue | #INDvWI | @IamSanjuSamson pic.twitter.com/tmKNBWbFNA
With this victory, India keeps alive its hopes of lifting the trophy again, reinforcing the skill and resilience of the current squad. The semifinal showdown against England now becomes one of the most anticipated fixtures of the tournament, with supporters across Australia and India buzzing over India’s dramatic progression.
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗹𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗲𝘀 🇮🇳#TeamIndia are semi-finals bound in the #T20WorldCup 👏
— BCCI (@BCCI) March 1, 2026
Updates ▶️ https://t.co/ur4pr8Bi3K#MenInBlue | #INDvWI pic.twitter.com/45sjJydel9
Overall, Samson’s match-winning knock not only delivered a crucial win but also lit up one of the most electric atmospheres of the tournament, reminding fans why T20 World Cup cricket continues to deliver unforgettable moments.
