Sanju Samson’s pyrotechnics lit up Wankhede, firing India to a dramatic 7-run semifinal win over England, securing final passage. The 89-run knock in 42 balls (8×4, 7×6) crowned him Player of the Match.
Key was the explosive 97/45-run alliance with Ishan Kishan for second wicket, lifting India to 253/7. England’s gritty 246/7 reply wasn’t enough.
In reflections, Samson revealed, ‘Sensational feeling. Form’s return hit me last game; sustaining was priority. High-stakes matches require exploiting opportunities – I invested time, built wisely after luck’s nudge, kept rhythm via solid prep.’
On the surface: ‘No safe scores at Wankhede; I loaded runs knowing chases happen. England’s approach earned respect – elite semifinal.’
Broader kudos: ‘Pitch reading from experience aided. Team excelled; Bumrah brilliant. Wankhede’s vibe: aggressive flow over targets. Proud of impact.’
Spotlight shifts to March 8 final in Ahmedabad against New Zealand, Samson surging.