In a high-octane Super-8 clash at Kolkata on Sunday, India’s Sanju Samson delivered a masterclass, remaining not out on 97 from 50 balls with 12 fours and 4 sixes, powering India to a five-wicket win over West Indies and ending the Caribbean team’s T20 World Cup 2026 hopes.
West Indies, electing to bat, racked up 195/4, buoyed by contributions across the order. Yet, on a pitch favoring chases, India romped home with 4 balls to spare, thanks largely to Samson’s fireworks.
West Indies skipper Shai Hope was gracious in defeat: ‘Perhaps we were 10-15 runs short, particularly here where chasing is easier. More runs in the slog overs might have sealed it. Hats off to Sanju Samson – what an innings. Full credit to him, though extra runs could’ve changed the script.’
Jasprit Bumrah’s heroics with the ball loomed large, his 2/36 dismantling key stands. Hope didn’t hold back: ‘Bumrah is their go-to guy. His over that got Hetmyer and Chase was pivotal – Hetmyer was on fire in the tournament. That shifted momentum. We still got to 190-plus, which was competitive.’
Praising his attack, Hope noted, ‘Bowling-wise, we’ve been outstanding all tournament. Adapted brilliantly, powerplay was tight. Akeal shone, Motie impressed on return. Just short today.’
On the bigger picture: ‘Exiting now stings – semis were within reach with one more win. The lads deserve credit for raising the bar. Moving forward, execute in crunch moments and peak on game day.’
Samson’s knock not only won the match but highlighted India’s depth, while West Indies reflect on near-misses in a tournament of promise.