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The Times of India

Sports / The Times of India

How 15 balls reignited India's T20 World Cup campaign before Sanju's 97

While Sanju's 97 in Kolkata will be remembered, his short-lived but significant innings against Zimbabwe three days prior had brought momentum to India's T20 World Cup campaign.

2 Mar 2026 11:03 pm
PV Sindhu pulls out of All England amid rising tensions in Middle East

PV Sindhu has withdrawn from the All England Championships due to travel disruptions in Dubai, but will compete in the Swiss Open next week. The rest of the Indian contingent is in Birmingham, aiming to break a 25-year jinx at the prestigious event. Several Indian players face tough opening rounds against top international opponents.

2 Mar 2026 9:39 pm
Team India arrives in Mumbai after sealing semifinal spot | T20 World Cup 2026

Team India arrives in Mumbai after sealing semifinal spot | T20 World Cup 2026

2 Mar 2026 9:32 pm
'Trying to keep my family safe': Bairstow's desperate plea from war-hit Dubai

Wicket-keeper Jonny Bairstow is stranded in Dubai with his family due to halted commercial flights amid rising Middle East tensions. He expressed distress over ensuring their safety and seeking a route home, while cricket schedules have also been disrupted. The UK government advises British nationals in the UAE to shelter in place.

2 Mar 2026 9:06 pm
Tennis stars stranded in Dubai as Middle East war disrupts travel

Former US Open champion Daniil Medvedev is among a small group of players and team members the ATP Tour is assisting to leave Dubai due to widespread travel disruptions caused by the war in the Middle East. The ATP is providing support and accommodation for those affected, ensuring their safety as they await conditions to travel to their next tournaments.

2 Mar 2026 7:36 pm
Afridi demands 'aggressive' leader, backs Fakhar for top job

Pakistan's T20 World Cup exit has sparked debate over leadership, with former captain Shahid Afridi criticizing all-rounder Shadab Khan's performance and suitability for captaincy. Afridi advocates for an aggressive leader like Fakhar Zaman to steer the team forward after another disappointing ICC event.

2 Mar 2026 6:43 pm
'I felt helpless': Rohit Sharma's honest admission on India vs Pakistan thriller

Rohit Sharma cherishes the 2007 T20 World Cup final against Pakistan as his most memorable encounter. He also highlighted the thrilling 2022 MCG clash, where Virat Kohli's extraordinary innings secured a dramatic win from a dire situation. Sharma emphasized that nerves remained a constant throughout his career, fueling his desire to perform.

2 Mar 2026 5:53 pm
Suryakumar Yadav takes off cap, bows to Sanju Samson - WATCH

Sanju Samson's unbeaten 97 guided India to a five-wicket victory over West Indies, securing a T20 World Cup semifinal spot. Captain Suryakumar Yadav's heartfelt bow to Samson after the win symbolized immense respect and acknowledged the batter's crucial match-winning performance under pressure.

2 Mar 2026 4:52 pm
'He'll hurt the opposition': Ganguly's big statement on Sanju Samson

Sourav Ganguly lauded Sanju Samson's unbeaten 97 as 'outstanding,' propelling India into the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals. Samson's brilliant chase secured a crucial win against the West Indies, setting up a clash with England. Ganguly emphasized Samson's value and consistent role in India's white-ball plans.

2 Mar 2026 4:04 pm
PCB to fine Pakistan players PKR 50 lakhs each after T20 World Cup exit

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to take the most bizarre of actions after the Pakistan team's average performance in the ongoing T20 World Cup.

2 Mar 2026 3:50 pm
MS Dhoni turns 'umpire', dances after wide in CSK nets - WATCH

IPL 2026 preparations commenced in Chennai with MS Dhoni joining Ruturaj Gaikwad and the Chennai Super Kings squad for their first practice session. Dhoni's playful antics during nets brought laughter, while Gaikwad showcased sharp batting. New signings and domestic players participated as the franchise unveiled their new jersey.

2 Mar 2026 3:36 pm
'Rulayega kya pagle?': Samson's on-camera reply to Surya goes viral

Sanju Samson's spectacular unbeaten 97 powered India to a thrilling five-wicket victory over West Indies, securing a T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal spot. His match-winning knock, the highest in an Indian T20 World Cup chase, earned him immense praise from skipper Suryakumar Yadav, highlighting Samson's crucial contribution under pressure.

2 Mar 2026 3:00 pm
Indian cricket team leaves from Kolkata, fans go mad for Sanju Samson

Indian cricket team leaves from Kolkata, fans go mad for Sanju Samson

2 Mar 2026 2:18 pm
How Mr Cool Sanju Samson fired India into World Cup semis

How Mr Cool Sanju Samson fired India into World Cup semis

2 Mar 2026 12:43 pm
India to host Afghanistan for Test & ODI series - full schedule announced

Team India is set to host Afghanistan for a multi-format cricket series in June 2026, featuring a one-off Test and three ODIs. The tour, spanning June 6-20, will see matches played in New Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Lucknow, and Chennai. This series offers vital preparation for both nations ahead of a busy international schedule.

2 Mar 2026 12:17 pm
Ill take the blame: Shai Hope owns up as West Indies crash out at Eden

West Indies captain Shai Hope accepted blame for his team's T20 World Cup exit, admitting his slow start against India stalled their momentum. Despite a late surge, the 196-run target proved insufficient. Hope highlighted the dew factor and his winless toss record as challenges, while praising India's Sanju Samson's match-winning knock.

2 Mar 2026 11:56 am
T20 WC semi-final schedule, dates, times, venues All you need to know

Team India secures a thrilling semi-final spot in the T20 World Cup 2026, setting up a high-voltage clash against England on March 5 in Mumbai. South Africa will face New Zealand in the first semi-final on March 4 in Kolkata. The winners will battle for the championship title on March 8 in Ahmedabad.

2 Mar 2026 11:37 am
Mission England: Gambhir demands special effort as India gear up for Wankhede semi-final

Gautam Gambhir praised Sanju Samson's match-winning 97 against the West Indies, highlighting his potential. However, the focus now shifts to the T20 World Cup semi-final against a formidable England side in Mumbai. Gambhir emphasized that India will require a 'special effort' and flawless execution to overcome the unbeaten English team.

2 Mar 2026 11:00 am
Superman Sanju rescues India: Samson seals chase vs WI, Eng semifinal awaits

Sanju Samson's brilliant unbeaten 97 powered India into the T20 World Cup semifinals with a five-wicket victory over the West Indies. Despite a challenging target, Samson anchored the chase, showcasing his talent. Earlier, Jason Holder and Rovman Powell's late surge helped West Indies post a competitive 195.

2 Mar 2026 10:17 am
Zimbabwe's boisterous fans bring Arun Jaitley Stadium to life

Zimbabwe's famed 'Castle Corner' set of supporters made themselves count in Sri Lanka as the team shocked Australia and the islanders in the T20 World Cup group stage. Having had their stay extended thanks to the team's heroic run and a benefactor, the set of six brought that energy to the Gautam Gambhir Stand at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday.

2 Mar 2026 10:12 am
BCCI ropes in Zaheer Khan to groom pacers

The BCCI has enlisted former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan to mentor the country's emerging fast bowlers. Khan will lead specialized training camps at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru starting early March. This initiative aims to address the recent scarcity of fast-bowling talent in Indian cricket.

2 Mar 2026 10:08 am
Poor tactics, faulty playing XI hasten Pakistans T20 World Cup exit

Pakistan's T20 World Cup journey ended prematurely due to a lack of consistency and questionable decision-making. Despite favorable conditions, the team faltered, with tactical errors and batting struggles costing them dearly. Captain Salman Ali Agha acknowledged pressure impacts their choices, while promising a review of leadership. Promising performances from Farhan and Tariq offered glimmers of hope amidst the disappointment.

2 Mar 2026 9:40 am
He showed his true potential: Gambhir lauds Samson after Eden masterclass

Gautam Gambhir lauded Sanju Samson's unbeaten 97 against the West Indies, calling it a glimpse of his true potential. Samson's composed innings guided India to the T20 World Cup semifinals, showcasing his world-class talent and silencing past criticisms. Gambhir expressed confidence in Samson's ability to build on this match-winning performance.

2 Mar 2026 9:24 am
Stars stranded as West Asia erupts: First-person account from Dubai

Dubai, once a vibrant hub for top-tier tennis, now resembles a ghost town following escalating West Asian tensions. Coordinated strikes triggered widespread retaliation, leading to major airspace closures and thousands of stranded travelers. Even renowned athletes are caught in the disruption, with flights cancelled and routes blocked, creating an anxious atmosphere.

2 Mar 2026 9:01 am
Explained: How much will it cost to watch the FIFA World Cup?

World Cup tickets in North America are proving costly, with opening match prices near $900 and the final exceeding $8,000. Despite millions of tickets made available, record demand and dynamic pricing have driven up costs, with resale prices reaching astronomical figures. Fans also face significant expenses for parking.

2 Mar 2026 8:48 am
Good things happen to good people who wait: Suryas emotional tribute to Samson

Sanju Samson's spectacular unbeaten 97 guided India to a thrilling five-wicket victory over the West Indies at Eden Gardens, securing a T20 World Cup semifinal spot. Skipper Suryakumar Yadav lauded Samson's patience and hard work, highlighting the team's character under pressure. This crucial win sets up a semi-final clash against England.

2 Mar 2026 8:19 am
T20 World Cup: How Sanju Samson unlocked his true potential

On Sunday, Sanju Samson delivered a defining 97 not out in a high-pressure T20 World Cup chase at the Eden Gardens. Years of watching greats like Kohli and Rohit from the dugout shaped his composure, while a stable base unlocked his power. It was a knock of high quality that may redefine his career.

2 Mar 2026 8:08 am
'This is the day I was waiting for': Sanju Samson's emotional confession

Sanju Samson described his match-winning performance as a dream come true, a culmination of years battling self-doubt. He credits extensive experience, both playing and observing cricketing greats, for his ability to handle pressure. Samson emphasized adapting to match situations and focusing on his role rather than milestones, finding solace in the present moment to overcome lingering uncertainties.

2 Mar 2026 7:00 am
Shimron Hetmyer creates T20 World Cup history, sets all-time record vs India

Shimron Hetmyer has created a new record for hitting the most sixes in a single T20 World Cup edition. He smashed 19 sixes, surpassing Sahibzada Farhan. Hetmyer's powerful hitting has been a highlight for the West Indies. The article also mentions other notable six-hitters from past tournaments. India secured a semifinal spot after a thrilling chase against the West Indies.

2 Mar 2026 6:00 am
Sanju Samson scripts history, rewrites record books to surpass Virat Kohli

Sanju Samson delivered a historic unbeaten 97, the highest T20 World Cup chase score by an Indian, to guide the team to a thrilling victory against the West Indies. His magnificent 50-ball innings, featuring 12 fours and four sixes, powered India to their record successful chase, securing a semi-final spot.

2 Mar 2026 5:00 am
T20 World Cup: Gautam Gambhir on Sanju Samson, Jasprit Bumrah and record chase vs West Indies

T20 World Cup: Gautam Gambhir on Sanju Samson, Jasprit Bumrah and record chase vs West Indies

2 Mar 2026 1:13 am
Sanju Samson becomes darling of Eden Gardens | T20 World Cup

Sanju Samson becomes darling of Eden Gardens | T20 World Cup

2 Mar 2026 12:33 am
T20 World Cup: Shukri Conrad press conference after SA vs ZIM

T20 World Cup: Shukri Conrad press conference after SA vs ZIM

1 Mar 2026 11:46 pm
T20 World Cup: Sikandar Raza press conference after SA vs ZIM

T20 World Cup: Sikandar Raza press conference after SA vs ZIM

1 Mar 2026 11:08 pm
Ice-cool Sanju Samson fires India into T20 World Cup semis

Pace or spin, Samson took them down with aplomb and never lost shape in the process. He hit the ball where it was meant to be hit but his ice-cool nerves stood out during his 45-ball 97*, which included 12 boundaries and four sixes.

1 Mar 2026 10:55 pm
T20 WC: South Africa coach's 'cupcake' jibe after another 'chokers' reminder

South Africa coach Shukri Conrad brought out the cupcake jibe after continuing their unbeaten run in the T20 World Cup with a win over Zimbabwe. He was asked about their infamous 'chokers' tag as they ready to face New Zealand in the semi-final at Eden Gardens on Wednesday.

1 Mar 2026 8:43 pm
Zimbabwe stuck in India amid closure of airspace in Middle East

After the US and Israel's airstrikes on Iran and their counter-attack on US military installations around the Gulf, it has affected the airspace in the global business hub of Dubai. Zimbabwe were due to fly out through that region on their way back home after a positive tournament.

1 Mar 2026 8:20 pm
T20 World Cup: Sikandar Raza restores Zimbabwe's pride, albeit in losing cause

Zimbabwe skipper Sikandar Raza's all-round performance, including a 73-run knock and three wickets, nearly led his team to an upset against South Africa. Despite a strong effort, South Africa secured a five-wicket victory, maintaining their unbeaten run in the T20 World Cup Super Eight.

1 Mar 2026 6:45 pm
Healy finishes on a high as Australia sweep India 3-0 in ODI series

Alyssa Healy concluded her ODI career with a brilliant century, scoring 158 as Australia posted 409/7. Beth Mooney also contributed an unbeaten 106, leading Australia to a commanding 185-run victory over India in the final ODI. This win secured a 3-0 series sweep for Australia.

1 Mar 2026 6:08 pm
With homeland under attack, Iran women chase FIFA World Cup dream

Football authorities are supporting Iran's women's team at the Women's Asian Cup in Australia following recent military strikes in Iran. The Asian Football Confederation is monitoring the situation and prioritizing the safety of all involved. The Iranian team aims to showcase their abilities and qualify for the World Cup.

1 Mar 2026 5:00 pm
'Extremely critical': Former India coach pins hopes on Bumrah and Chakaravarthy

Former batting coach Sanjay Bangar stresses the need for disciplined bowling from India against the West Indies' aggressive batting. He highlights the importance of Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakaravarthy executing their plans, particularly advising Chakaravarthy to bowl fuller to exploit potential LBW or bowled dismissals against key batsmen like Shimron Hetmyer.

1 Mar 2026 4:59 pm
T20 World Cup: Salman Ali Agha press conference after PAK vs SL

T20 World Cup: Salman Ali Agha press conference after PAK vs SL

1 Mar 2026 4:39 pm
Israel-US strike on Iran: PCB confirms ODI match cancelled in Abu Dhabi

Security concerns in Abu Dhabi have led to the cancellation of the second unofficial one-day match between Pakistan Shaheens and England Lions. The England and Wales Cricket Board cited safety as their top priority, also delaying the England Women's team's trip. The disruption follows military strikes and missile fire in the region, causing airspace closures and flight cancellations.

1 Mar 2026 4:01 pm
'No one will get IPL contracts if...': Ex-India cricketer's message before WI clash

Former cricketer Manoj Tiwary humorously warned India that failing to beat the West Indies in their crucial T20 World Cup Super 8 clash could jeopardize their IPL futures. This high-stakes match is effectively a knockout for a semi-final spot, with both teams seeking to bounce back after losses to South Africa.

1 Mar 2026 3:57 pm
Bairstow, Flintoff, England Lions stuck in Dubai amid Middle East tensions

England Lions and Pakistan Shaheens are stranded in Dubai after Irans air strikes led to UAE airspace closure, cancelling their match. Jonny Bairstow, Andrew Flintoff, and others are stuck. The ECB says, The safety and security of our teams and staff is our top priority, while Bairstow sought flight updates on X.

1 Mar 2026 3:43 pm
'We are stuck here': Blast near Dubai airport clouds Sindhu's All England opener

Two-time Olympic medallist P V Sindhu and her coach faced a terrifying ordeal at Dubai International Airport after an explosion near their location. Stranded due to flight suspensions amid Middle East tensions, they are anxiously awaiting departure for the All England Championships. The Badminton World Federation is monitoring the situation closely, prioritizing player safety.

1 Mar 2026 3:36 pm
'Completely clueless': Akhtar blasts Pakistan, fires warning to Mohsin Naqvi

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board's leadership, calling the management clueless after their T20 World Cup exit. Akhtar highlighted flawed player selections, suggesting the team's consistent failures in ICC tournaments stem from a weak support structure around PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, urging him to seek better advice.

1 Mar 2026 2:57 pm
Jammu and Kashmir's maiden Ranji Trophy triumph: It takes a village

Jammu and Kashmirs historic Ranji Trophy triumph is a story of collective belief, long battles and delayed redemption. From Paras Dogras leadership to Auqib Nabis rise, from Abid Nabis unfulfilled dream to Samiullah Beigh's sweet redemption, this title reflects years of quiet toil. In the end, it was not about who claimed credit first, but about a village that won together.

1 Mar 2026 1:04 pm