India post 253/7 after riding Samson’s blitz; set England 254 to win in T20 World Cup semi‑final

MUMBAI: In the second semi‑final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the Wankhede Stadium, India posted a challenging total of 253 for 7 after being sent in to bat by England, setting a target of 254 runs for victory in their must‑win clash.

The hosts capitalised on their batting depth, with opener Sanju Samson anchoring the innings with a brilliant 89, bringing up his score with a flurry of boundaries and keeping the scoreboard ticking throughout the innings.

Supporting contributions came from Shivam Dube (43) and Ishan Kishan (39), while Hardik Pandya chipped in with 26, Tilak Varma scored 21, and Abhishek Sharma and Axar Patel added quick runs late in the innings.

India’s top order looked in control throughout the innings, rotating the strike well and punishing anything loose, with the Indian innings unfolding at a healthy pace throughout the 20 overs.

England Bowlers Make Inroads

England’s bowling attack found some success in the middle overs, with Will Jacks and Adil Rashid grabbing key wickets, both ending with two scalps apiece, while Jofra Archer chipped in with a wicket as well.

Despite the pressure of defending a big total, India’s charge with the bat put them in a strong position as England begin their reply later in the evening.

What This Means

India now hold the initiative in this World Cup semi‑final, backed by a big total and a strong batting foundation. England’s batting lineup faces a daunting task chasing 254 in front of a packed Wankhede crowd.

India were sent into bat after England captain Harry Brook won the toss and elected to field. Early in the powerplay, India lost Abhishek Sharma to Will Jacks’ bowling, completing the first breakthrough for England