Harry Brook’s dropped catch proves costly as Sanju Samson makes England pay in semi-final

India are taking on England in the second semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. England captain Harry Brook won the toss and opted to bowl first, but the decision quickly backfired as Indian opener Sanju Samson produced a scintillating knock.

Samson’s innings proved decisive, especially after Brook dropped him when he was on 15. The missed opportunity turned costly, as the wicketkeeper-batter went on to hammer 89 off just 42 deliveries, smashing eight fours and seven sixes at a staggering strike rate of 211.90. From the moment of reprieve, Samson added 74 runs off just 35 balls, completely shifting the momentum in India’s favour.

The right-hander carried forward the confidence from his previous outing against the West Indies cricket team, where he had scored an unbeaten 97 to guide India into the semi-finals. His return to form is particularly significant given his struggles in the bilateral series against the New Zealand national cricket team earlier this season, which had led to him being dropped from the XI in favour of Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan.

Samson was recalled ahead of the Super Eight clash against Zimbabwe national cricket team but initially looked scratchy despite hitting a few sixes. However, he bounced back emphatically against West Indies and has now delivered when it mattered most in a high-pressure semi-final.

India’s campaign began strongly, as they remained unbeaten in the group stage with wins over the United States, Namibia, Pakistan, and Netherlands. Their only setback came against South Africa in the Super Eight stage.

As defending champions, having beaten South Africa in the 2024 final, India now have a golden opportunity to reach another summit clash. Having also won the inaugural edition in 2007, a triumph in 2026 would make them the first team to lift the T20 World Cup title three times.

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