Sometimes, sport gives you a moment that feels bigger than just numbers on a scoreboard. For Sanju Samson, this was that night.
In a high-pressure clash against the West Indies in the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, Sanju Samson delivered the innings of his life. His unbeaten 97 off just 50 balls powered India to a thrilling last-over win and secured a place in the semi-finals. Smashing 12 fours and four sixes at a staggering strike rate of 194, the highest in the match among batters who faced at least 15 balls, he carved his name into the Indian cricket history and ICC tournaments alike.
What made it even more special was the journey behind it. Sanju Samson had been India’s first-choice opener before the 2025 Asia Cup but had to step aside for Shubman Gill who was also named the vice-captain. A move to the middle order didn’t work out and he was dropped. He returned briefly, only to struggle in a series against New Zealand, losing his place again to Ishan Kishan. This World Cup opportunity came after Abhishek Sharma’s struggles forced a change at the top.
And when it mattered the most, Sanju Samson stood tall.
He began aggressively, ensuring India got early momentum. While wickets tumbled around him, Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma fell in the powerplay and Suryakumar Yadav managed just 18 off 16. Sanju Samson remained calm; he kept the scoreboard ticking, finding boundaries almost every over with remarkable composure.
With the match on the line, it was fitting that he finished it himself, staying unbeaten on 97. Fans couldn’t ignore the coincidence, 97 was also Gautam Gambhir’s score in the 2011 World Cup final and many proudly declared this knock “better than a century”.
Here are few reactions:
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India now prepares to face England in the semi-final at Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.
