India produced a clinical all-round display to eliminate the West Indies cricket team from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and storm into the semi-finals with a composed chase.
The victory also helped India put behind the painful memories of their 2016 T20 World Cup exit at the Wankhede Stadium — the same venue that will now host their semi-final.
West Indies Post Competitive 195/5
After opting to bat, West Indies made a brisk start. Openers Roston Chase and Shai Hope added 49 without loss in the powerplay, taking advantage of field restrictions. Despite conditions offering some assistance to the bowlers, India struggled initially for breakthroughs.
Hope scored 32 before departing, but Shimron Hetmyer injected momentum with a blistering 27 off just 12 balls. Rovman Powell and Jason Holder chipped in with valuable contributions, powering West Indies to a competitive 195 for 5 in 20 overs.
For India, Jasprit Bumrah stood out with two crucial wickets, applying timely brakes on the scoring rate.
Samson’s Masterclass Anchors Chase
Chasing 196, India lost Abhishek Sharma early for 10. From there, Sanju Samson took control with a composed yet authoritative innings.
Samson paced his knock brilliantly, remaining unbeaten on 97*, anchoring the chase with maturity and intent. Ishan Kishan played a few attacking strokes before falling, while captain Suryakumar Yadav shared a brief but steady partnership.
Tilak Varma added 27 crucial runs, keeping the required rate in check. With 50 needed off the final 30 deliveries, Hardik Pandya contributed 17, and Shivam Dube supported Samson as India calmly crossed the finish line.
Semi-Final Showdown Awaits
With this morale-boosting win, India have secured a semi-final clash against England cricket team at the Wankhede Stadium on March 5.
The commanding chase not only sealed a place in the last four but also reaffirmed India’s credentials as strong contenders for the T20 World Cup 2026 title.
