Kolkata, March 1 – In a match marked by fluctuating fortunes, Sanju Samson emerged as the hero, leading India to a five-wicket victory over the West Indies in their T20 World Cup Super Eights match here on Sunday.
India will face England in the semifinals at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on March 5.
The West Indies, batting first, put up a strong total of 195 for 4, with Rovman Powell (34 not out) and Jason Holder (37 not out) providing a late flourish.
Despite a shaky start for India's top-order batsmen, including Abhishek Sharma (10) and Ishan Kishan (10), Sanju Samson anchored the innings with a brilliant 97 not out. His powerful hitting and composure helped India reach 199 for 5 in 19.2 overs.
Sanju's innings included 12 fours and four sixes, and he finished the chase with four balls to spare, hitting a towering six over square leg to level the scores.
Suryakumar Yadav (18), Tilak Varma (27), and Hardik Pandya (17) also contributed, but their early dismissals hampered India's progress.
Roston Chase (68 off 25 balls) and Shai Hope (32 off 33) had earlier laid the foundation for the West Indies' innings.
The match witnessed several dropped catches and tight bowling from both sides.
The West Indies' victory brought an end to their campaign in this edition of the World Cup.
