Kolkata, March 1 Sanju Samson smashed a brilliant unbeaten 97 as India defeated West Indies by five wickets in a crucial Super 8 clash to secure their semifinal spot at the T20 World Cup, here on Sunday.
Asked to bat first, West Indies posted a competitive 195 for 4, with contributions from Roston Chase (40), Shai Hope (32), Jason Holder (37 not out), and Rovman Powell (34 not out).
In reply, Samson delivered a masterful chase, smashing 12 fours and four sixes in his dazzling 50-ball innings, as India overhauled the target with four balls to spare.
He received strong support from Tilak Varma (27), Suryakumar Yadav (18), and Hardik Pandya (17), who ensured there were no late setbacks.
Jasprit Bumrah (2/36) was the standout Indian bowler, taking two crucial wickets, while Jason Holder (2/38) and Shamar Joseph (2/42) also claimed two wickets for West Indies.
Brief scores:
West Indies: 195 for 4 in 20 overs (Roston Chase 40; Jasprit Bumrah 2/36)
India: 199 for 5 in 19.2 overs (Sanju Samson 97 not out; Jason Holder 2/38)
