T20 World Cup semi-finals set!

By Razeen Gutta

India’s dream of retaining the ICC T20 World Cup at home was kept alive by Sanju Samson’s unbeaten 97, as they defeated the West Indies by five wickets in a thrilling encounter in Kolkata.

Samson’s 50-ball knock, completed with 12 fours and four sixes, guided India to a comfortable chase, despite the West Indies setting a target of 196.

The Windies hoped to stay alive in what was a virtual quarter final clash. But even after some fielding errors from the hosts and Jason Holder and Rovman Powell’s unbeaten 76-run partnership, Samson’s heroics ensured a five-wicket win for India.

Samson, who opened the innings, shared a 58-run partnership with captain Suryakumar Yadav, before Tilak Varma joined him to add 27 crucial runs.

“Very grateful, very thankful,” Samson said post-match, crediting Indian legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for teaching him the art of finishing matches.

“Right from the day I started playing, started dreaming to play for the country, I think this is the day I was waiting for,” he added.

India will now face England in the last four on Thursday, after South Africa take on New Zealand in the other semi-final (Wednesday).

The Proteas remain the only unbeaten side in the tournament following their five wicket win over Zimbabwe earlier on Sunday. They will hope to go one step further than their final defeat to India in 2024 as they eye up two big wins.

The final is scheduled to be played in Ahmedabad next Sunday.

Pictured above: Sanju Samson

Source: @bcci