When people talk about India’s greatest innings in the T20 World Cup, the first one that usually comes up is Virat Kohli’s unforgettable 82 not out against Pakistan at the MCG in 2022. Those who watched it live still say it felt like something special and almost impossible to top. But now, Sanju Samson has given fans another knock to remember.
In the T20 World Cup 2026 must-win game against the West Indies, Samson played a stunning unbeaten 97 off just 50 balls to guide India into the semi-finals. It wasn’t just the runs he scored; it was the way he did it. Calm, confident and completely in control.
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Srikkanth on Sanju Samson's knock
Former India captain Kris Srikkanth also joined the cricketing pundits to praise the wicketkeeper batter he said the innings reminded him of Kohli’s famous night in Melbourne.
“I was there when Kohli played that knock against Pakistan,” Srikkanth said. “This felt like that level. One of the best chases I’ve ever seen. Everything just seemed to fall into place for Sanju. It felt like it was meant to happen.”
Srikkanth pointed out how effortless Samson looked at the crease
Samson has had a tough few months in the Indian team, in and out of the side, often under pressure. But on this big stage, he stepped up when it mattered most. Srikkanth pointed out how effortless Samson looked at the crease.
“He seemed to have an extra second to play every shot,” he said. “There wasn’t a single careless moment. He didn’t look like getting out at all.”
From straight drives off the back foot to powerful punches that looked almost like tennis shots, Samson showed a full range of strokes. According to Srikkanth, it was a complete innings, measured when needed, attacking when required.
Srikkanth on Samson's batting masterclass
Even though he criticised the West Indies bowling attack, Srikkanth made it clear that what stood out was Samson’s control and timing.
“He had so much time. Front foot or back foot, it didn’t matter. Against fast bowlers, he was playing straight down the ground off the back foot; that’s not easy. Some of those shots were masterclass,” he added.
In the end, the knock wasn’t just about helping India win. It also saw Samson break Kohli’s record for the highest score in a successful run chase for India in T20 World Cup history.