India qualified for the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals with a five-wicket win over West Indies in their final Super 8 match at Eden Gardens Stadium in Kolkata on Sunday. But this wasn't just any victory—it was a historic chase that will echo through cricket history. Sanju Samson powered India's highest successful chase at the T20 World Cups, delivering one of the most clutch performances when it mattered most. Samson hit an unbeaten 97 off just 50 balls to help the defending champions chase down a 196-run target in 19.2 overs.
West Indies posted a competitive 195 for four, riding on contributions from Roston Chase (40), Shai Hope (32), Jason Holder (37 not out) and Rovman Powell (34 not out). It was a total that looked strong on paper, but India's chase of 196 began with intent but also early jolts, slipping to 41/2 inside five overs. Abhishek Sharma (10) fell to Akeal Hosein in the third over before Ishan Kishan (10) pulled Jason Holder straight to Shimron Hetmyer. That's when Samson took over. Samson produced a chasing masterclass, hammering 12 fours and four sixes to floor the visitors.
The defending champions knocked out two-time winners to set up a mouth-watering knockouts clash against England, in a repeat of the 2024 semi-final. The two teams will square off in the second semi-final on March 5 in Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium. For a detailed breakdown of how India clinched this dramatic victory, check out our full India vs West Indies T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 coverage.