Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir struck a more measured tone after India’s five-wicket win over the West Indies on March 1 at the Eden Gardens, a result that sealed India’s place in the T20 World Cup semifinals.

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Amir, who had earlier predicted that India would not make the last four, had faced criticism on social media following the outcome. However, speaking on Geo News’ Haarna Mana Hai, he acknowledged Sanju Samson’s match-winning effort.

“You said they have proved me wrong. Look, where credit is due, it should be given. Sanju Samson played the best innings of his life. I’ve seen his knocks in the IPL and other matches, but this one in a do-or-die knockout was special,” Amir said, leaving even the show’s anchor surprised.

Samson’s unbeaten 97 came in a high-pressure chase of 196 in front of more than 65,000 spectators. On a night when several of India’s in-form batters failed to convert their starts, Samson anchored the innings smartly and accelerated at the right moments to take India to 199 for 5 in 19.2 overs.

Despite praising the opener, Amir maintained that India’s overall performance still raised concerns.

“If I analyse it purely from a cricketing point of view, India are not playing good cricket overall. Just look at their fielding, they dropped three or four catches and fumbled in the field. Apart from (Jasprit) Bumrah, the other bowlers are getting hit. Right now, India are playing on the strength of just one bowler,” he said.

Earlier in the evening, the West Indies followed an aggressive blueprint after being put in to bat. Roston Chase provided stability before late fireworks from Rovman Powell (34* off 19) and Jason Holder (37* off 22) powered them to 195 for 4.

Samson’s knock not only propelled India into the semifinals but also answered lingering questions about his temperament in high-stakes matches.

India will next face the England cricket team in the second semifinal at the Wankhede Stadium on March 5, with a place in the final on the line. Whether Amir’s assessment of India’s broader form stands up to scrutiny will be tested once again on the big stage.