Kolkata’s Eden Gardens witnessed a spectacle on Sunday as Sanju Samson delivered a career-defining knock of 97 not out from 50 deliveries, breaking Virat Kohli’s benchmark and steering India into the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals with a 5-wicket win against West Indies.
The wicketkeeper-batter’s onslaught—featuring 12 boundaries and 4 maximums—rendered West Indies’ attack helpless. India chased down 196 in 19.2 overs, losing 5 wickets. Samson’s resilience shone through amid tumbling wickets, partnering with Hardik Pandya for 58 runs before sealing victory with a crisp four.
Previously, Kohli’s 82* in 2016 vs Australia and 2022 vs Pakistan stood as the chase record. Samson’s feat ranks as India’s second-best T20 WC individual score. Contributions from Tilak Varma (27) and Pandya (17) supported the chase.
West Indies’ 195/4 was built on Chase’s 40 (25 balls), Powell’s 34* (19), and Holder’s 37* (22) laced with two fours and three sixes. Tournament journey ends for the defending champions.
As India prepares for England on March 5, Samson’s performance signals a new chapter in Indian T20 batting dominance, blending aggression with composure.