IND vs WI, T20 World Cup 2026: Sanju Samson scripted a piece of cricketing history at Eden Gardens as India pulled off a thrilling five-wicket victory over the West Indies to qualify for the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals on Sunday, March 1. Chasing a massive 196, Samson produced a masterclass under pressure, finishing unbeaten on 97 off just 50 balls—the highest score by an Indian in a T20 World Cup chase, surpassing Virat Kohli’s legendary 82.
Earlier in the evening, the West Indies looked set for an upset after being put in to bat. Despite Jasprit Bumrah’s clinical double-strike in the 12th over, an unbeaten 76-run partnership between Jason Holder (37*) and Rovman Powell (34*) propelled the Windies to 195/4. India’s fielding was unusually sloppy, with Abhishek Sharma dropping two crucial chances, allowing the Caribbean power-hitters to plunder 70 runs in the final five overs.
India’s response began aggressively but faced early setbacks. Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan fell within the powerplay, leaving the heavy lifting to Samson and captain Suryakumar Yadav. While Suryakumar (16) and later Tilak Varma (27) provided support, it was Samson who dominated the bowling. He reached his fifty in just 26 balls and continued to find the fence whenever the required rate climbed.
The match reached a fever pitch in the penultimate over when Hardik Pandya miscued Shamar Joseph to extra-cover after being dropped earlier. With 7 runs needed off the final over, Shivam Dube rotated the strike to Samson, who promptly smashed Romario Shepherd for a six and a four to seal the game with four balls to spare.
This victory ensures India finishes second in the Super 8 Group 1, setting up a blockbuster semi-final clash against England at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, March 5. West Indies, despite a valiant effort, are eliminated from the tournament.
