Photo via The Times of India

'The turning point was when Tilak got out': Samson on why India lost 4th T20I

India’s T20I series against the West Indies remains finely poised after a 24-run defeat in the fourth match, leveling the five-game contest at 2-2 ahead of a winner-takes-all final in Bengaluru. The hosts collapsed from a strong start, chasing down a challenging 247 for three set by Shai Hope’s unbeaten century (102 off 50).

Keemo Paul’s five-wicket haul dismantled India’s batting lineup, with opener Sanju Samson and wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan both dismissed early in the chase. Samson, who top-scored with 56 off 23 balls, later cited Tilak Varma’s dismissal as the decisive moment, noting the partnership between Varma and KL Rahul had shifted momentum before India’s collapse to 223 in 19.3 overs.

Samson defended India’s young talent, praising top-order batsmen Kishan and Abhishek Sharma despite their struggles, while also backing the emerging pace duo of Arshdeep Singh and Mayank Yadav. With Jasprit Bumrah rested, the pair conceded 52 runs each in their four overs, though Samson emphasized the need for more opportunities to refine their skills.

The West Indies’ dominance in two of the five matches earned credit from Samson, who acknowledged their aggressive approach while vowing India would compete fiercely in the decider. Hope’s composed innings and Paul’s sharp bowling were key factors in the visitors’ victory, setting the stage for a high-stakes finale.

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Samson reveals what cost India the 4th T20I