India have marched into the final four of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after a stunning knock from Sanju Samson, and cricket fans across the globe are celebrating. The stylish right-hander delivered a calm and match-winning unbeaten 97* against the West Indies in a high-pressure knockout clash in Calcutta.
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri and current coach Gautam Gambhir were both full of praise for Samson’s maturity, composure and class under pressure.
With this victory, India now prepare for a blockbuster semi-final against England cricket team in Mumbai.
Sanju Samson’s Special 97* Guides India to Victory
Playing in a tense knockout match at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Sanju Samson produced one of the finest innings of his T20 career.
Key Highlights of Samson’s Innings:
97 not out*
12 boundaries
4 massive sixes
Player of the Match award
Guided India through a tricky run chase
It was Samson’s highest score of the tournament so far and arguably one of his most important innings in an India shirt.
Chasing a competitive total set by the West Indies cricket team, India found themselves under pressure when captain Suryakumar Yadav was dismissed for 18 in the 11th over.
However, Samson remained calm.
He stitched crucial partnerships with:
Tilak Varma (27 runs)
Hardik Pandya (17 runs)
Although India crossed the target only in the final over, Samson’s control over the chase was never in doubt.
Ravi Shastri Applauds Samson’s Calmness Under Pressure
Speaking on The ICC Review, Ravi Shastri described the innings as “special” and praised Samson’s composure on the big stage.
Shastri highlighted:
His timing and placement
Explosive yet controlled power
Class and elegance
Ability to stay calm despite wickets falling
According to Shastri, this was not just another league game — it was a knockout match with massive expectations. He pointed out that throughout his career, Samson’s talent was never questioned, but consistency often was.
This innings, however, answered many critics.
Shastri said Samson “made millions around the globe happy” by finally delivering on the big stage when it mattered most.
Gautam Gambhir: “He Is a World-Class Player”
India’s current head coach Gautam Gambhir echoed similar sentiments after the match.
Gambhir stressed that the key was backing Samson and giving him confidence.
He said:
Samson never forced the innings.
There was no unnecessary acceleration.
The shots were natural, classical cricket strokes.
He was always in control of the chase.
Interestingly, Gambhir noted that Samson did not muscle the ball. Instead, he relied on timing and pure cricketing skill — a sign of true class.
“He is a world-class player,” Gambhir said, adding that he hopes this innings marks the beginning of a consistent run of big performances.
With potentially two more games to play in the tournament, India will be hoping Samson continues this rich vein of form.
Why This Knock Could Be a Turning Point
Sanju Samson has long been regarded as one of India’s most gifted batters. Yet, many fans felt he had not fully converted his talent into match-defining performances in major tournaments.
This 97* could change that narrative.
Why This Innings Matters:
It came in a knockout match.
It came under intense pressure.
It came with expectations at their highest.
It came against a strong West Indies side.
Most importantly, it came when India needed him the most.
Semi-Final Showdown: India vs England
India now face a tough semi-final against England in Mumbai. The clash promises fireworks, with both teams packed with explosive talent.
If Samson carries this form into the semi-final, India will feel confident about their chances of lifting the trophy.
The big question now is simple:
Was this just one great innings — or the start of a golden chapter in Sanju Samson’s T20 World Cup journey?
Sources
The ICC Review
Post-match comments from Ravi Shastri
Post-match press conference by Gautam Gambhir
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match reports
India are just two wins away from glory. And if Sanju Samson continues to bat with this maturity, calmness and brilliance, the dream of another T20 World Cup title could soon become reality.
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