T20 World Cup: India legend Sachin Tendulkar hailed Sanju Samson’s composure and match-defining influence after the wicketkeeper-batter powered India into the semifinals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with a stunning unbeaten 97 against the West Indies at Eden Gardens on Sunday.
“Semi-final spot on the line, and the boys handled it beautifully! Handling the final overs well in both innings gave us the edge. Sanju Samson’s calm presence at the crease was wonderful to watch. That kind of presence lifts a side. Brilliant effort from everyone. On to the semi-finals,” Tendulkar wrote on X, underlining the magnitude of Samson’s innings in a high-pressure virtual quarterfinal at Eden Gardens.
Samson’s knock, which came in pursuit of a daunting 196-run target, anchored India’s highest successful chase in T20 World Cup history and ensured their progression to face England in the semifinal. His poise under pressure drew admiration from across the cricketing fraternity, including former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh, who praised his readiness and belief.