Abhishek Nayar, a former India player, has praised Sanju Samson for his outstanding performance in the T20 World Cup 2026 match against the West Indies. Samson’s unbeaten knock of 97 runs off 50 balls played a crucial role in India’s victory over the West Indies.
The West Indies had set a target of 195/4 after being asked to bat first in the final Super Eight stage game in Kolkata. In response, Samson’s brilliant innings helped India chase down the target with five wickets and four balls to spare.
During a discussion on JioHotstar, Nayar highlighted Samson’s calm and focused approach during the match. He mentioned that Samson seemed to be in his zone, solely focusing on where he could hit the next ball without being distracted by the scoreboard.
Nayar also commended Samson’s impeccable footwork, which reflected his excellent mindset and confidence. He pointed out that Samson’s footwork was precise and confident, allowing him to play the ball in different areas with ease.
Sanju Samson’s unbeaten 97-run knock, which included 12 fours and four sixes, is the highest score by an Indian batter in a T20 World Cup chase. Nayar specifically praised Samson for his shot selection and strategic approach, noting that he never seemed to be overhitting the ball.
The former India assistant coach also lauded Samson for his ability to plan his innings perfectly under pressure. Despite wickets falling around him, Samson held his fort and executed his shots with finesse and power at the right moments.
Apart from Samson, Tilak Varma was the only other Indian batter to score more than 20 runs in the game, contributing 27 runs off 15 balls. Varma’s partnership with Samson was crucial in India’s successful chase against the West Indies.
Overall, Samson’s exceptional performance in the T20 World Cup 2026 match showcased his talent, composure, and ability to deliver under pressure. His innings was a perfect blend of aggression, finesse, and strategic planning, earning him praise from fans and experts alike.
The match was a testament to Samson’s skills and temperament as a top-order batter, and it will be remembered as one of his standout performances in international cricket. With his impressive display against the West Indies, Samson has once again proven himself as a valuable asset to the Indian cricket team.

