The Green Post Ireland
India are back in the T20 World Cup semi-finals — and this time, it came on the back of a high-pressure chase that demanded nerve, control and a standout innings.
In front of a packed Eden Gardens on March 1, the Men in Blue hunted down 196 in a must-win Super 8 clash, defeating West Indies by five wickets to seal their place in the last four. As Group 1 runners-up, India will now face England at the Wankhede Stadium on March 5 for a place in the final.
The defining figure of the night was Sanju Samson.
Samson Anchors a Statement Chase
A target of 196 in a knockout-style contest is rarely straightforward. The early loss of Abhishek Sharma for 10 inside three overs only heightened the tension. But Samson absorbed the pressure and dictated terms.
His unbeaten 97 off 50 deliveries combined tempo with control — 12 boundaries and four sixes that ensured the required rate never spiralled. He paced the innings expertly, accelerating through the middle overs and refusing to surrender his wicket at crucial moments.
Support arrived in measured bursts. Captain Suryakumar Yadav added 18, Tilak Varma contributed 27, and Hardik Pandya chipped in with 17. None converted, but each partnership allowed Samson to maintain rhythm without panic.
By the closing overs, India had regained full control. The chase was completed with assurance, sending the Eden Gardens crowd into celebration and confirming India’s third consecutive T20 World Cup semi-final appearance — their sixth overall.
West Indies Push India to the Limit
Earlier, West Indies had built a formidable platform.
Shai Hope and Roston Chase combined for a 68-run opening stand, establishing early dominance. Shimron Hetmyer and Sherfane Rutherford kept the scoreboard moving as India searched for balance with their bowling combinations.
The decisive surge came late. Rovman Powell (34*) and Jason Holder (37) unleashed a 76-run stand off just 35 balls, propelling West Indies to 195/4 — a total that looked match-winning at one stage.
Jasprit Bumrah delivered a disciplined spell of 2 for 36, while Hardik Pandya and Varun Chakaravarthy claimed one wicket apiece. Yet the Caribbean finish ensured India would need a near-perfect response.
Semi-Final Spotlight Shifts to Mumbai
India’s reward is a marquee clash against England at the Wankhede Stadium.
The victory in Kolkata does more than secure qualification — it signals confidence under pressure. The batting lineup appears fluid, the bowling adaptable, and the side comfortable in high-stakes scenarios.
West Indies exit with credit for their fighting total, but India advance with momentum.
On a night that demanded composure, Sanju Samson delivered one of the tournament’s defining knocks.
The stage now shifts to Mumbai — and the stakes only get higher.
