Sanju Samson Matches Kohli Record, Leads India to T20 World Cup Final

Mumbai: Sanju Samson orchestrated a dominant Indian victory in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup semifinal against England at Wankhede Stadium. The wicketkeeper-batter scored a match-winning 89 runs off 42 balls, propelling the Men in Blue into the tournament final. His innings featured high-velocity stroke play, striking eight boundaries and seven sixes at a strike rate of 211.90.

Record-Equalling Performance

Samson’s 89-run assault equals the record for the highest score by an Indian batter in a T20 World Cup knockout match. He shares this milestone with Virat Kohli, who scored an unbeaten 89 off 47 balls against the West Indies in the 2016 semifinal at this same venue. Additionally, Samson set a new benchmark for the highest score by an Indian wicketkeeper in a World Cup knockout fixture.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selection of Samson has paid dividends throughout the tournament. This performance follows his unbeaten 97 against the West Indies in the final Super Eight match in Kolkata, establishing him as a central figure in India’s campaign.

Most Sixes by an Indian in a Single T20 World Cup

Samson’s aggressive approach allowed him to surpass Rohit Sharma’s 2024 record for the most sixes hit by an Indian in a single edition of the tournament. The table below details the top six-hitters for India in T20 World Cup history.

Tournament Statistics and Impact

Samson has accumulated 232 runs in just four matches during the 2026 edition. His statistical output highlights his efficiency at the crease:

• Runs: 232
• Average: 77.33
• Strike Rate: 201.73
• 50+ Scores: 2 (including one 90+ score)

The Indian team now advances to the final, looking to secure their second T20 World Cup title. Fans can track official fixture updates on the International Cricket Council (ICC) website or view detailed player statistics on ESPN Cricinfo.