India suffered a 24-run defeat against the West Indies in the fourth T20I in Hyderabad after failing to chase a challenging target of 248 runs. Following the match, Indian wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson said that Tilak Varma’s dismissal was the turning point that changed the course of the game. Chasing 248, India were struggling at 130 for 5 in the 12th over. However, Tilak Varma and Nitish Kumar Reddy brought the team back into the contest with an impressive partnership. The two young batters handled the pressure well and kept India’s hopes alive with their attacking approach. India looked to be in a strong position during their partnership, scoring at a good rate. However, West Indies pacer Romario Shepherd dismissed Tilak Varma when India needed 48 runs from 19 balls. His wicket proved costly, as India lost momentum at a crucial stage and eventually fell short of the target by 24 runs.

Speaking after the match, Samson highlighted the importance of Tilak’s wicket. “The turning point of the match was when Tilak got out,” Samson said. “We were cruising, scoring those 10-12 runs per over really nicely. Reddy and Tilak were batting really well in the pressure situation. Till that moment, I think we were in the chase.” “That is actually a great thing to have after losing five wickets, having that kind of control — two young cricketers taking on the pressure and taking on the West Indian bowling line-up,” he added. “Whatever you do feels very different when you are on the losing side, so I am actually a bit gutted at the moment,” Samson said. “I definitely wanted to be on the winning side. I really enjoyed batting out there. When you are chasing a score like that, there are no second thoughts — you just have to back your instincts, your power game, and that is what I did. So I really enjoyed the knock, but I would have liked to be on the winning side.”

Samson was also asked whether India were missing the services of their star fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, in the bowling department. He acknowledged that Bumrah is a special player but expressed confidence in the young bowling talent coming through the ranks. “There is no replacement for Jasprit Bumrah. He is a once-in-a-generation kind of bowler, and we are very lucky to have him,” Samson said. “But we have had some really good talent coming along also; Arshdeep has been doing a great job, and also the way Prince Yadav has bowled in the last few games is very impressive. I feel we have some really good talent. The more we play them, the more we back them, the better they will become,” he added.

The Indian pacer appeared to be in considerable pain but continued long enough to face one more delivery before retiring hurt. His fitness will be an important concern for India ahead of the fifth and final T20I. Providing an update on Arshdeep’s condition, Samson said, “Arshdeep is putting ice on his shoulder. Hopefully he recovers soon.”