India Beat West Indies by Five Wickets to Reach T20 World Cup Semis

In a high‑stakes Super Eight clash at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Sunday, India secured a dramatic 5‑wicket victory over West Indies to book their place in the semifinals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

Chasing a challenging target of 196, India reached 199/5 with four balls to spare, powered by a stunning unbeaten knock from Sanju Samson, who scored 97 off just 50 balls to steer his side home.

West Indies were sent in to bat after losing the toss and made the most of their opportunity to post a competitive 195/4 in their 20 overs.

Opener Roston Chase contributed 40, while Jason Holder chipped in with 37 as the Caribbean side set a demanding total against a quality Indian bowling attack.

• India defeats West Indies by five wickets to secure T20 World Cup semifinal spot
• Sanju Samson's brilliant 97 guides India to a dramatic T20 victory
• India set for intense semifinal clash against England after thrilling win

India’s chase began with promise but suffered early setbacks as regular wickets tumbled. Captain Suryakumar Yadav (18) and Ishan Kishan (10) fell cheaply, leaving the chase under pressure. However, Samson gradually rebuilt India’s innings with aggressive intent, striking boundaries at crucial moments and frustrating the West Indies bowlers.

Support came from Tilak Varma (27) and contributions down the order, but it was Samson’s class that proved decisive. With a flurry of fours and sixes, he anchored the innings and punished loose deliveries, earning the Player of the Match award for his brilliant knock that kept India ahead in the chase.

The win not only keeps India’s title defence alive but also sets up a tantalising semifinal showdown against England in Mumbai on March 5. This is set to be a repeat of recent World Cup semifinal clashes between the sides, promising another fierce contest.

Despite the loss, West Indies can take pride in their strong batting display and moments of competitive cricket in the tournament. Hard‑hitting West Indian batsman Shimron Hetmyer also made headlines by setting a record for the most sixes in a single edition of the T20 World Cup during this match.

Also Read: Pizza Hut Launches Crafted Flatzz with Niharika NM in Digital Drive

The victory marks a thrilling late‑tournament surge for India, with fans celebrating a tense finish at one of cricket’s most iconic venues.