![Sanju Samson wins hearts with match-winning knock [Source: @SuhansYt, @FarziCricketer/X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1772386185574_FanshailSanjuSamsoninT20WorldCup2026.jpg?type=hq)
Sanju Samson wins hearts with match-winning knock [Source: @SuhansYt, @FarziCricketer/X.com]
Sanju Samson finally delivered under pressure as he smacked a match-winning knock of 97 runs against the West Indies in the Super 8 fixture of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
Chasing a tricky total of 196 runs, India needed a good start, and Samson used his experience to deliver just that. He not only gave a strong platform but also stayed till the end to finish it.
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Sanju Samson hailed on social media for heroic knock
The chase was never easy. On top of that, India dealt an early blow in Abhishek Sharma, who scored just 10 runs off 10 balls. Ishan Kishan couldn’t trouble the scoreboard much, and suddenly, India lost 2 wickets in the powerplay.
However, Sanju Samson had made up his mind to deliver, and his intent was clear from ball one. He took on the Windies bowlers head-on and smashed them all over the ground.
Samson ensured no bowler got settled and hit timely boundaries to keep the scoreboard ticking and also ensure the required run rate was under control. Sanju completed his half-century in no time and converted the start into a match-winning knock
With 7 needed off the 6 balls, Sanju Samson hit the innings runs and finished with an unbeaten 97 off 50 balls, including 12 fours and 4 sixes. This knock was nothing short of a redemption for Samson, who saw himself get dropped in the early part of the tournament.
To deliver when it mattered the most for India, spoke volumes about his temperament. Undoubtedly, the fans were overjoyed and hailed Sanju on social media platforms.
India through to the semi-finals
With that sensational performance, Sanju Samson led India to a commanding 5-wicket victory. He hit the winning runs by smashing a four off Romario Shepherd and immediately broke into celebration.
Apart from Samson, Tilak Varma contributed 27 off 15 balls. Hardik Pandya also eased the pressure a bit with 17 off 14 balls. But Sanju Samson stood tall.
He never left the crease or threw his wicket away to ensure India were never in trouble.
Meanwhile, this victory sealed India’s semi-final berth, as they will now face England at the Wankhede Stadium. The match will be held on Thursday, March 5.
India shatter records at the Eden Gardens
The 5-wicket victory was hard-earned as India celebrated it in style. Interestingly, this win marked the biggest successful chase in Kolkata T20Is and India’s highest-ever chase in T20 World Cup history.
Sanju Samson starred with an unbeaten 97 off 50 balls, which is now the second-highest score by an Indian in T20 WC history and the highest ever by an Indian in a chase.
The result also stands as the second-biggest successful chase against the West Indies in T20 World Cups, making it a landmark night filled with milestones and unforgettable moments.
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