Samson's Unbeaten 97 Guides India to T20 World Cup Semi-Final

Sanju Samson delivered a commanding performance with an unbeaten 97 runs, steering India to a five-wicket victory over the West Indies in Kolkata on Sunday. The win secured India's place in the T20 World Cup semi-final against England, as reported by sources.

Playing in front of a packed crowd of 67,000 at Eden Gardens, Samson struck 12 fours and four sixes in his 50-ball innings. His effort came during a high-stakes Super Eights match, where the winner would advance to the next stage of the tournament.

The West Indies, after being asked to bat first, posted a total of 195-4. Their innings was bolstered by a late surge, with 70 runs scored in the final five overs. Despite losing two early wickets, India maintained the required run rate throughout their chase.

Samson, opening the batting for the second consecutive match, anchored the innings after India slipped to 41-2. He was joined by captain Suryakumar Yadav, who contributed 18 runs, and together they added 58 runs for the third wicket. Tilak Varma then partnered with Samson, scoring 27 off 15 balls before being dismissed in the 15th over, with India at 141-4 and still needing 55 runs to win.

Although Hardik Pandya was dismissed for 17, Samson remained at the crease and guided India to the target with four balls to spare. The result eliminated the West Indies from the tournament and set up a semi-final clash between India and England.