Sanju Samson Points to Tilak Varma Dismissal as Turning Point in India’s Loss

India’s attempt to pull off a record-breaking chase fell short in Hyderabad as the West Indies secured a 24-run victory on October 14, 2026. The result levels the five-match T20I series at 2-2, following a high-scoring encounter where India was bowled out for 223 in 19.3 overs while chasing a daunting target of 248.

In his post-match assessment, Indian batter Sanju Samson identified the dismissal of Tilak Varma as the pivotal moment that halted India’s momentum. Varma had reached 43 runs and appeared settled at the crease before he was dismissed by Romario Shepherd. According to Samson, the timing of that wicket disrupted a partnership that had put India within reach of the target.

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The Turning Point in the Chase

India’s pursuit of the 248-run target was fueled by Samson’s own aggressive performance, as he scored 56 runs off just 23 deliveries. However, the middle-order resistance struggled to maintain the required run rate after Varma’s exit. While Varma and Samson kept the scoreboard ticking, the loss of the former forced a shift in the chase’s tempo.

West Indies’ bowling attack, led by Keemo Paul, capitalized on the opening. Keemo Paul’s match-winning 5/41 dismantled the Indian batting lineup, ensuring the visitors could not sustain their late-inning charge. Despite several Indian batters getting starts, the clinical nature of Paul’s spells prevented the lower order from finishing the game.

Shai Hope Powers West Indies to Massive Total

The foundation for the West Indies’ win was laid in the first innings by Shai Hope, who delivered a standout performance with the bat. Hope scored an unbeaten 102 off 50 balls. His explosive hitting allowed the West Indies to post a formidable total of 247/3.

India’s bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs throughout the 20 overs. The task was further complicated in the final over of the Indian chase when pace bowler Arshdeep Singh was struck on the left bicep by a delivery from Shamar Joseph. Arshdeep was forced to leave the field immediately following the impact, raising concerns over his availability for the upcoming series finale.

defended a formidable total of 247 to level the five-match series.

Series Decider in Bengaluru

With West Indies’ 24-run victory, the series is now perfectly poised heading into the fifth and final match. The teams will travel to Bengaluru to determine the winner of the trophy.

India will need to address both their death bowling and their middle-order consistency if they are to overcome a resurgent West Indies side. For the visitors, the form of Shai Hope and the efficiency of Keemo Paul remain their primary strengths as they look to secure a series win on Indian soil.

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