Photo via The Times of India

Sanju Samson matches Virat Kohli’s record with whirlwind fifty against West Indies

Sanju Samson turned a slow start in the T20I series against West Indies into a statement performance with the fastest half-century by an Indian batsman in the format against the Caribbean side. The wicketkeeper-batter reached his 50 in just 21 balls during India’s second match in Ranchi, matching Virat Kohli’s record set in 2019.

His aggressive innings included six boundaries and three sixes, helping India post their highest powerplay total in T20Is against West Indies—79 runs for one wicket—after Shreyas Iyer’s team opted to bat first despite wet conditions. Samson’s 42-run partnership with Abhishek Sharma (20 off 12 balls) set the tone, while his later partnership with Ishan Kishan kept pressure on the West Indies bowlers.

The explosive start came after Samson’s modest 11-run effort in the series opener, where India had won by eight wickets. West Indies captain Shai Hope adjusted his lineup by bringing in Gudakesh Motie, but India’s unchanged side remained focused on maintaining high standards throughout the match.

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