️ Defending champions India secured a nail-biting 7-run victory over England in a high-scoring semi-final of the T20 World Cup in Mumbai, booking their place in the tournament final. The co-hosts posted a formidable total of 253/6, but a spectacular century from England's Jacob Bethell (105 off 48 balls) nearly orchestrated a historic chase, with England finishing at 246/7 after Bethell was run out in the final over.

️ India's innings was anchored by a scintillating knock from opener Sanju Samson, who smashed 89 runs off 42 balls, including seven sixes and eight fours. His 97-run partnership with Ishan Kishan off 48 balls set a daunting platform, putting England's bowlers under immense pressure. England, reeling at 64/3 early in the powerplay, revived their hopes through cameos from Tom Banton (17 off 5 balls) and Will Jacks (35 off 20 balls), who combined with Bethell in a crucial 77-run stand.

️ Bethell's explosive 105 off 48 balls, featuring six sixes and nine fours, brought England within touching distance of the record chase of 254, but his dismissal in the last over sealed India's win. Late contributions from Hardik Pandya (27 off 12) and Tilak Varma (21 off 7) propelled India past the 250-mark, highlighting their batting depth. England's bowling struggled, with Jofra Archer conceding 61 runs in his four overs for just one wicket, while Jacks emerged as the most effective bowler with figures of 2/40.

️ India now advances to the final against New Zealand, who secured a comprehensive win over South Africa earlier in the week. The final, set for Sunday in Ahmedabad, will see India aiming for a record third T20 World Cup title, while New Zealand looks to claim their first championship in the format.

Source: www.aljazeera.com