Samson said Tilak Varma’s dismissal was the turning point in the 24-run defeat to West Indies in Hyderabad
India were bowled out for 223 in 19.3 overs while chasing 248, despite a fast start from the top order
The series now moves to Bengaluru for the decider on Saturday, with Samson saying India are ready for the contest
India opener Sanju Samson believes that Tilak Varma's dismissal was the turning point in the fourth T20I against the West Indies on Wednesday, as the visitors defeated the Men in Blue by 24 runs.
Chasing 248, India slipped to 130/5 in the 12th over despite Samson's explosive 56 off 23 balls, a knock laced with six fours and four sixes.
Tilak Varma and Nitish Kumar Reddy then stitched together a crucial 70-run partnership off just 32 deliveries, bringing the equation down to 48 needed off 19 balls.
However, Romario Shepherd removed Tilak to tilt the momentum back in the West Indies' favour, with India eventually being bowled out for 223 in 19.3 overs.
"The turning point of the match was when Tilak got out. 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," Samson said.
"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.
Samson Backs India's Bowling Depth
When asked if India was missing Jasprit Bumrah, Samson replied that while the ace pacer remains irreplaceable, the squad does not lack depth or talent to step up in his absence.
Samson said: "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. But we have had some really good talent coming along also; Arshdeep [Singh] 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."
Samson acknowledged the visitors' performance ahead of Saturday's series decider in Bengaluru.
"We are 2-2 now, and everything comes down to the game in Bengaluru. We are very charged up and want to go out there and compete against them. West Indies have been playing some really good cricket, and you have to give them credit for coming to India and dominating in two games," he said.
