India secured a thrilling five-wicket victory over West Indies in the 52nd match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Super Eights Group 1 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on March 1, advancing to the semi-finals. Sanju Samson’s unbeaten 97 off 50 balls powered the chase, earning him Player of the Match honors.
Match Summary
West Indies posted 195/4 in 20 overs after India captain Suryakumar Yadav won the toss and opted to bowl. Shai Hope (32) and opener Roston Chase built a 68-run stand before Varun Chakravarthy dismissed Hope. A late surge from Rovman Powell (34* off 19) and Jason Holder (37* off 22) added crucial runs, with their 76-run partnership lifting the total.
India chased 199/5 in 19.5 overs, led by Samson’s masterclass featuring elegant drives and big hits. Earlier, West Indies reached 82/1 at 10 overs, with Shimron Hetmyer (27 off 12) contributing before Jasprit Bumrah took two quick wickets.
Key Performances
- Sanju Samson: 97* (50 balls), blending finesse and power to anchor the chase.
- West Indies Openers: Hope and Chase’s 68-run partnership set a solid platform.
- Bowling Highlights: Hardik Pandya leaked runs early (e.g., 11 in one over), but Chakravarthy and Bumrah struck back.
| Batsman | Team | Runs (Balls) | Key Shots |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sanju Samson | IND | 97* (50) | Drives, sixes |
| Jason Holder | WI | 37* (22) | Late surge |
| Rovman Powell | WI | 34* (19) | Unbeaten stand |
| Shai Hope | WI | 32 (?) | 50 partnership |
Path to Semis
This win followed India’s 72-run triumph over Zimbabwe, setting up a virtual quarter-final against West Indies. India now faces England in the semi-final in Mumbai on Thursday. West Indies’ spin-heavy attack, including Akeal Hosein, couldn’t defend the total despite a competitive score.
