India scripted history in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup by completing their highest successful run chase in tournament history. Chasing a daunting target of 196 against the West Indies cricket team at Eden Gardens, India sealed a five-wicket victory to confirm their place in the semi-finals.
West Indies Post Competitive 195/4
After being put into bat, the West Indies posted 195/4 in 20 overs. Skipper Rovman Powell (34* off 19) and Jason Holder (37* off 22) stitched an unbeaten 76-run stand to power the innings in the death overs.
Earlier, Roston Chase and Shai Hope provided a steady start before India pulled things back in the middle overs.
Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah was India’s standout performer with the ball, returning figures of 2/36 and breaking crucial partnerships.
Sanju Samson Leads Historic Chase
In response, India began aggressively but faced early setbacks. However, wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson delivered a career-defining knock, smashing an unbeaten 97 off 49 balls. His innings included 12 boundaries and four sixes, keeping India ahead in the chase despite mounting pressure.
India reached 199/5 with four balls to spare, marking their highest-ever successful chase in T20 World Cup history.
India’s Highest Successful Run Chases in the T20 World Cup
| Target | Opponent | Venue | Year | Key Performer |
| 196 | West Indies | Kolkata | 2026 | Sanju Samson (97*) |
| 173 | South Africa | Mirpur | 2014 | Virat Kohli (72*) |
| 161 | Australia | Mohali | 2016 | Virat Kohli (82*) |
| 160 | Pakistan | Melbourne | 2022 | Virat Kohli (82*) |
India’s previous highest chase came in 2014 against South Africa when Virat Kohli guided the team with a match-winning, unbeaten 72.
Semi-Final Confirmed
The victory ensured India’s qualification for the semi-finals of the 2026 edition, where they are set to face the England cricket team. The win also underlined India’s dominance in high-pressure knockout scenarios.
This record-breaking chase not only showcased India’s batting depth but also highlighted their ability to perform under must-win conditions on the global stage.
