Kolkata semi-final showdown: Samson’s 97 sends India to England clash
India booked a Kolkata semi-final showdown after a thrilling win over West Indies. Sanju Samson led the charge with an unbeaten 97 at Eden Gardens. As a result, India moved into a high-stakes clash against England. The packed stadium roared as Samson played fearless cricket. He smashed 12 fours and four sixes in his 50-ball knock. Therefore, fans witnessed one of the finest innings of the tournament.
West Indies posted 195-4 after a brutal late surge. However, India stayed calm despite losing two early wickets. The chase never slipped out of reach.
Samson Leads the Charge
Samson opened for the second straight match and set the tone early. When India slipped to 41-2, captain Suryakumar Yadav joined him. Together, they added a steady 58 runs. Tilak Varma then scored a quick 27 off 15 balls. Still, India needed 55 from the final overs. Samson held firm and guided the innings with confidence.
Hardik Pandya added 17 before falling late. Nevertheless, India reached the target with four balls left. Fireworks lit up the night as supporters celebrated. Earlier, West Indies finished strong with 70 runs in the last five overs. Jason Holder and Rovman Powell built an unbeaten 76-run stand. In addition, Powell’s late hits kept the pressure high.
India dropped three catches, which added tension. Even so, the bowlers struck at key moments. Varun Chakravarthy and Jasprit Bumrah delivered timely breakthroughs. Now, attention turns to the Kolkata semi-final showdown against England. South Africa will meet New Zealand in the other semi-final. The grand final awaits in Ahmedabad next Sunday.
