<p>India Women started their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a bang, beating Pakistan by 64 runs in the first match and then beating Netherlands by 95 runs in the second match. Thier loss against South Africa, however, has left them in a bit of trouble to make it to the semis. Only top two teams from each group of six teams will enter final four and India are vying for a place alongside Australia and South Africa as contenders. While the loss against Proteas does make their life difficult, India still have things not too out of control but would have to be on top of their game.</p><h2>How can India qualify for T20 World Cup 2026 semis?</h2><p>India are currently second in Group B with four points from two wins and one loss in three matches but it is their net run rate (NRR) of +2.511 which is in their favour. South Africa, on the other hand, also have four points from two wins and one loss in three matches, but have a net run rate (NRR) of -0.546.</p><p><strong>Also read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-2025-27-why-england-were-docked-12-points-during-the-second-test-against-new-zealand-1782117447611">WTC 2025-27: Why England were docked 12 points during the second Test against New Zealand</a></p><p>Both the teams have two matches left - India play against Bangladesh and Australia, while South Africa play against Bangladesh and Netherlands.</p><p>Winning both the matches will take India to eight points, same as Australia, assuming they win against Pakistan and lose against India. South Africa, if manage to win their reamining matches, will have have eight points and the three team will then battle it out over net run rate.</p><h2>How is net run rate calculated?</h2><p>The net run rate is calculated as the difference of run scored by a team and runs scored againt them by the oppostiion divided by the overs. For example, India scored 200 runs in 20 overs and then stopped the other team at 180. The net run rate after that match would be (200/20 = 20) - (180/20 = 9), i.e +1.000.</p><h2>What if India lose against Australia?</h2><p>Aussuming India win against Bangladesh and lose against Australia, they would then on the mercy of South Africa losing at least one of their matches - against Bangladesh or Netherland.</p><p>If Bangladesh beat South Africa, they would also reach six points, just India if they lose against Australia in group stage and win against Bangladesh. The net run rate (NRR), however, would again be in India's advantage as Bangladesh currently have a NRR of -0.641.</p>

While the loss against Proteas does make their life difficult, India still have things not too out of control but would have to be on top of their game.

India Women started their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a bang, beating Pakistan by 64 runs in the first match and then beating Netherlands by 95 runs in the second match. Thier loss against South Africa, however, has left them in a bit of trouble to make it to the semis. Only top two teams from each group of six teams will enter final four and India are vying for a place alongside Australia and South Africa as contenders. While the loss against Proteas does make their life difficult, India still have things not too out of control but would have to be on top of their game. How can India qualify for T20 World Cup 2026 semis? India are currently second in Group B with four points from two wins and one loss in three matches but it is their net run rate (NRR) of +2.511 which is in their favour. South Africa, on the other hand, also have four points from two wins and one loss in three matches, but have a net run rate (NRR) of -0.546. Also read - WTC 2025-27: Why England were docked 12 points during the second Test against New Zealand Both the teams have two matches left - India play against Bangladesh and Australia, while South Africa play against Bangladesh and Netherlands. Winning both the matches will take India to eight points, same as Australia, assuming they win against Pakistan and lose against India. South Africa, if manage to win their reamining matches, will have have eight points and the three team will then battle it out over net run rate. How is net run rate calculated? The net run rate is calculated as the difference of run scored by a team and runs scored againt them by the oppostiion divided by the overs. For example, India scored 200 runs in 20 overs and then stopped the other team at 180. The net run rate after that match would be (200/20 = 20) - (180/20 = 9), i.e +1.000. What if India lose against Australia? Aussuming India win against Bangladesh and lose against Australia, they would then on the mercy of South Africa losing at least one of their matches - against Bangladesh or Netherland. If Bangladesh beat South Africa, they would also reach six points, just India if they lose against Australia in group stage and win against Bangladesh. The net run rate (NRR), however, would again be in India's advantage as Bangladesh currently have a NRR of -0.641.

<p>While the loss against Proteas does make their life difficult, India still have things not too out of control but would have to be on top of their game.</p>

T20 WC 2026 | How can India qualify for semis after loss against South Africa?

<p>In a shocking development, International Cricket Council's (ICC) Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) is investigating one of the matches at he recently played 2026 T20 World Cup involving Canada team for alleged match-fixing. The ACU is also probing corruption allegations in Cricket Canada. This comes after a documentary aired by public broadcaster CBC on Friday (Apr 10). The 43-minute film, produced by the fifth estate, makes multiple accusations against Cricket Canada and governance, in the the documentary titled 'Corruption, Crime and Cricket.'</p><h2>Was there match-fixing in T20 World Cup 2026?</h2><p>According to the documentary, the T20 World Cup 2026 game involving Canada, which is being probed for corruption was against New Zealand in the group stage. The focus is on the fifth over of New Zealand chase bowled by Canada skipper Dilpreet Bajwa. He was appointed the captain three weeks prior to the tournament.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-we-ve-identified-areas-says-lungi-ngidi-as-dc-look-to-recover-from-consecutive-defeats-1776338993493">IPL 2026: DC focus on bounce-back after consecutive defeats: Lungi Ngidi</a></p><p>Canada started the innings with two pacers, Jaskaran Singh and Dilon Heyliger, who went for 15 and 14 runs, respectively. Spinner Saad bin Zafar came on to bowl the next over and took a wicket so did Heyliger in the next over. Bajwa then came on to bowl the fifth over, started with a no-ball and a wide, before ending up giving 15 runs in the over.</p><p>As for the match, New Zealand did not lose any more wickets after the first two, and chased down 174-run target in 15.1 overs with 8 wickets in hand.</p><h2>What does ICC say about this?</h2><p>Making a statement to ESPNCricinfo, Andrew Ephgrave, interim General Manager of the ICC's Integrity Unit, said: "The ACU is aware of the programme broadcast by CBC. Consistent with its established operating procedures, the ACU is not in a position to comment on the substance of any allegations contained within it.</p><p>"Governance matters in relation to ICC Members are considered by the ICC, where they fall under its jurisdiction, in accordance with the ICC's standard constitutional processes.</p><p>"The ICC's Anti-Corruption Unit operates across three core functions: intelligence, prevention and education, and investigation. These functions operate concurrently and are applied wherever there is a credible basis to believe the integrity of the sport may be at risk."</p>

According to a CBC documentary, the T20 World Cup 2026 game involving Canada, which is being probed for corruption was against New Zealand in the group stage. The focus is on the fifth over of New Zealand chase bowled by Canada skipper Dilpreet Bajwa.

In a shocking development, International Cricket Council's (ICC) Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) is investigating one of the matches at he recently played 2026 T20 World Cup involving Canada team for alleged match-fixing. The ACU is also probing corruption allegations in Cricket Canada. This comes after a documentary aired by public broadcaster CBC on Friday (Apr 10). The 43-minute film, produced by the fifth estate, makes multiple accusations against Cricket Canada and governance, in the the documentary titled 'Corruption, Crime and Cricket.' Was there match-fixing in T20 World Cup 2026? According to the documentary, the T20 World Cup 2026 game involving Canada, which is being probed for corruption was against New Zealand in the group stage. The focus is on the fifth over of New Zealand chase bowled by Canada skipper Dilpreet Bajwa. He was appointed the captain three weeks prior to the tournament. Also Read - IPL 2026: DC focus on bounce-back after consecutive defeats: Lungi Ngidi Canada started the innings with two pacers, Jaskaran Singh and Dilon Heyliger, who went for 15 and 14 runs, respectively. Spinner Saad bin Zafar came on to bowl the next over and took a wicket so did Heyliger in the next over. Bajwa then came on to bowl the fifth over, started with a no-ball and a wide, before ending up giving 15 runs in the over. As for the match, New Zealand did not lose any more wickets after the first two, and chased down 174-run target in 15.1 overs with 8 wickets in hand. What does ICC say about this? Making a statement to ESPNCricinfo, Andrew Ephgrave, interim General Manager of the ICC's Integrity Unit, said: "The ACU is aware of the programme broadcast by CBC. Consistent with its established operating procedures, the ACU is not in a position to comment on the substance of any allegations contained within it. "Governance matters in relation to ICC Members are considered by the ICC, where they fall under its jurisdiction, in accordance with the ICC's standard constitutional processes. "The ICC's Anti-Corruption Unit operates across three core functions: intelligence, prevention and education, and investigation. These functions operate concurrently and are applied wherever there is a credible basis to believe the integrity of the sport may be at risk."

<p>According to a CBC documentary, the T20 World Cup 2026 game involving Canada, which is being probed for corruption was against New Zealand in the group stage. The focus is on the fifth over of New Zealand chase bowled by Canada skipper Dilpreet Bajwa.</p>

Match fixing in T20 World Cup 2026? ICC's anti-corruption unit investigating match involving Canada

<p>Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) decided against sending its team to India for its scheduled T20 World Cup league matches, citing security concerns for its entourage. And after the ICC swapped them with Scotland despite numerous efforts to find a middle ground, a shocking revelation has grabbed headlines. Former Asian Cricket Council (ACC) CEO Ashraful Haque has alleged political pressure and inability to shrug off anti-India stance by now-ousted BCB chief Aminul Islam Bulbul and Sports Advisor Asif Nazrul as among the reasons behind Bangladesh’s absence from the 20-team tournament.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Although the matter escalated after IPL franchise KKR released the only Bangladeshi player picked in the December auction (Mustafizur Rahman) over unrest and regular attacks on minorities in Bangladesh during that time, Pakistan’s uncalled-for intervention further dented the situation, leading to Bangladesh’s exit from the T20 WC.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lsg-vs-gt-jos-buttler-completes-14000-t20-runs-as-prasidh-krishna-4-for-28-hands-gujarat-titans-second-straight-win-100th-fifty-1776000941255"><strong>LSG vs GT: Buttler completes 14,000 T20 Runs as Prasidh’s 4/28 hands Gujarat Titans second straight win</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Ashraful has slammed Bulbul for falling into the anti-India trap and the political agenda around it, on which Nazrul rode during that time, leading to the disaster.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"Absolutely, absolutely, and I was surprised that Aminul Islam Bulbul walked into the trap. It's like Asif Nazrul probably told him forcefully that we will not go to India, and right in the next minute, Bulbul says, "We will not go to India." That was a mistake, I think and had Bulbul stood up on his grounds that "we will go to India, because the players want to go to India and we have signed a legal agreement with the organisers that we have to fulfil," Ashraful said, as quoted by NDTV.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Haque also suggested that the decision to boycott the tournament was shattering and a massive disappointment for Bangladesh.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"Then maybe the government would have changed its mind, or it would have gone to a higher authority for the decision. I think Asif Nazrul decided on his own, and I don't think he understands the CEO of cricket either. He was riding on a common anti-India feeling in Bangladesh and said it on the basis of that. Completely uncalled for and a big setback for Bangladesh cricket," he continued.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, former Bangladesh captain and opener Tamim Iqbal has recently been appointed the new BCB president, leading the 11-member ad-hoc committee. The Bangladesh government first dissolved the existing BCB board led by Aminul over ‘gross irregularities’ during the October elections, before handing over the baton to Tamim, who had his differences with the board, leading to his retirement.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>At 37, Tamim is the youngest BCB chief, and now vows to partake in the upcoming board elections.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"Of course, I will participate in the elections. When there is a free and fair election, I will request everyone who is interested to participate. The board's cricketers, organisers, and everyone should participate. We have to create that atmosphere where everyone can come and hold elections.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"We have been given a responsibility today. Whoever gets this job talks about development. My team feels that we have to correct Bangladesh's reputation. We have to fix the damaged reputation of the last year and a half. It is our most important job right now,” he continued.</p>

Former ACC CEO Ashraful Haque reveals the shocking political pressure behind Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup withdrawal. As Tamim Iqbal takes over as the youngest BCB President to fix a "damaged reputation," discover how political agendas and security rows derailed the Tigers' campaign.

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) decided against sending its team to India for its scheduled T20 World Cup league matches, citing security concerns for its entourage. And after the ICC swapped them with Scotland despite numerous efforts to find a middle ground, a shocking revelation has grabbed headlines. Former Asian Cricket Council (ACC) CEO Ashraful Haque has alleged political pressure and inability to shrug off anti-India stance by now-ousted BCB chief Aminul Islam Bulbul and Sports Advisor Asif Nazrul as among the reasons behind Bangladesh’s absence from the 20-team tournament. Although the matter escalated after IPL franchise KKR released the only Bangladeshi player picked in the December auction (Mustafizur Rahman) over unrest and regular attacks on minorities in Bangladesh during that time, Pakistan’s uncalled-for intervention further dented the situation, leading to Bangladesh’s exit from the T20 WC. Also read | LSG vs GT: Buttler completes 14,000 T20 Runs as Prasidh’s 4/28 hands Gujarat Titans second straight win Ashraful has slammed Bulbul for falling into the anti-India trap and the political agenda around it, on which Nazrul rode during that time, leading to the disaster. "Absolutely, absolutely, and I was surprised that Aminul Islam Bulbul walked into the trap. It's like Asif Nazrul probably told him forcefully that we will not go to India, and right in the next minute, Bulbul says, "We will not go to India." That was a mistake, I think and had Bulbul stood up on his grounds that "we will go to India, because the players want to go to India and we have signed a legal agreement with the organisers that we have to fulfil," Ashraful said, as quoted by NDTV. Haque also suggested that the decision to boycott the tournament was shattering and a massive disappointment for Bangladesh. "Then maybe the government would have changed its mind, or it would have gone to a higher authority for the decision. I think Asif Nazrul decided on his own, and I don't think he understands the CEO of cricket either. He was riding on a common anti-India feeling in Bangladesh and said it on the basis of that. Completely uncalled for and a big setback for Bangladesh cricket," he continued. Meanwhile, former Bangladesh captain and opener Tamim Iqbal has recently been appointed the new BCB president, leading the 11-member ad-hoc committee. The Bangladesh government first dissolved the existing BCB board led by Aminul over ‘gross irregularities’ during the October elections, before handing over the baton to Tamim, who had his differences with the board, leading to his retirement. At 37, Tamim is the youngest BCB chief, and now vows to partake in the upcoming board elections. "Of course, I will participate in the elections. When there is a free and fair election, I will request everyone who is interested to participate. The board's cricketers, organisers, and everyone should participate. We have to create that atmosphere where everyone can come and hold elections. "We have been given a responsibility today. Whoever gets this job talks about development. My team feels that we have to correct Bangladesh's reputation. We have to fix the damaged reputation of the last year and a half. It is our most important job right now,” he continued.

<p>Former ACC CEO Ashraful Haque reveals the shocking political pressure behind Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup withdrawal. As Tamim Iqbal takes over as the youngest BCB President to fix a "damaged reputation," discover how political agendas and security rows derailed the Tigers' campaign.</p>

How political pressure and anti-India stance blew Bangladesh's T20 WC dreams, ex ACC CEO explains

<p>India batter Tilak Varma was felicitated by Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy for his key role in India’s T20 World Cup 2026 victory. The ceremony took place in Hyderabad following the team’s historic title defence, making India the first side to win back-to-back T20 World Cups. Tilak scored 207 runs in nine matches at a strike rate of 154.47, contributing significantly to the team’s success. Sharing the moment on social media, Revanth Reddy praised Tilak and appreciated his efforts for the country.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“On the occasion of the Indian team winning the T20 World Cup 2026 and arriving in Hyderabad, Team India player Shri Tilak Varma paid a courtesy visit,” Reddy wrote.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iran-trying-to-pull-a-pakistan-in-fifa-world-cup-2026-middle-eastern-country-negotiating-to-move-matches-outside-usa-1773727139996"><strong>Iran trying to pull a Pakistan in FIFA World Cup 2026? Middle Eastern country 'negotiating' to move matches outside USA</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“On this occasion, I felicitated and congratulated Tilak. In this program, ministers Shri Vakiti Srihari and Shri Azharuddin, Rajya Sabha member Shri Vem Narendra Reddy, SATG Chairman Shri Shivasena Reddy, and others participated,” he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Looking ahead, Tilak Varma will now turn his focus to the IPL 2026 season, where he will represent Mumbai Indians alongside stars like Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya and Rohit Sharma. The franchise will begin their campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders on Mar 29 at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-2026-mercedes-boss-wolff-blames-horrendous-to-drive-car-for-verstappen-s-horror-show-1773733178567"><strong>F1 2026: Mercedes boss Wolff blames 'horrendous to drive' car for Verstappen's horror show</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After his impressive World Cup performance, Tilak will aim to carry his momentum into the IPL and continue his growth in international cricket.</p>

After his impressive World Cup performance, Tilak will aim to carry his momentum into the IPL and continue his growth in international cricket.

India batter Tilak Varma was felicitated by Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy for his key role in India’s T20 World Cup 2026 victory. The ceremony took place in Hyderabad following the team’s historic title defence, making India the first side to win back-to-back T20 World Cups. Tilak scored 207 runs in nine matches at a strike rate of 154.47, contributing significantly to the team’s success. Sharing the moment on social media, Revanth Reddy praised Tilak and appreciated his efforts for the country. “On the occasion of the Indian team winning the T20 World Cup 2026 and arriving in Hyderabad, Team India player Shri Tilak Varma paid a courtesy visit,” Reddy wrote. Also Read - Iran trying to pull a Pakistan in FIFA World Cup 2026? Middle Eastern country 'negotiating' to move matches outside USA “On this occasion, I felicitated and congratulated Tilak. In this program, ministers Shri Vakiti Srihari and Shri Azharuddin, Rajya Sabha member Shri Vem Narendra Reddy, SATG Chairman Shri Shivasena Reddy, and others participated,” he added. Looking ahead, Tilak Varma will now turn his focus to the IPL 2026 season, where he will represent Mumbai Indians alongside stars like Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya and Rohit Sharma. The franchise will begin their campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders on Mar 29 at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Also Read - F1 2026: Mercedes boss Wolff blames 'horrendous to drive' car for Verstappen's horror show After his impressive World Cup performance, Tilak will aim to carry his momentum into the IPL and continue his growth in international cricket.

<p>After his impressive World Cup performance, Tilak will aim to carry his momentum into the IPL and continue his growth in international cricket.</p>

Telangana CM Revanth Reddy honours Tilak Varma following T20 World Cup triumph

<p>Abhishek Sharma entered the T20 World Cup as the ranked number one batter in the format, and although he retained his spot after India's triumphant campaign, what happened in between did put him under pressure. Abhishek got off to the worst possible start to his maiden ICC event, securing three successive ducks in his first three matches. And if his poor shot selections or lapse in concentration weren’t enough, suffering food poisoning midway through the first half made things worse for him. Who came to his rescue? His head coach Gautam Gambhir, team captain Suryakumar Yadav and senior teammate Hardik Pandya.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Fortunately, Abhishek’s poor run at the top didn’t hurt India much, as they won most of their matches, barring the one against South Africa in Super 8; however, he still needed some words of wisdom to maintain his confidence and hunger for runs. While he must have received plenty on the technical front, what helped him maintain his mind’s sanity was the installation of his social media accounts.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/abhishek-sharma-is-brave-but-his-early-stardom-invited-jealousy-indian-team-sanju-samson-t20-world-cup-2026-india-vs-new-zealand-ahmedabad-1773558463003"><strong>‘Abhishek is brave, but his early stardom invited jealousy’: Sanju Samson</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Abhishek explains how it did wonders for him.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“Slowly, you get used to it (criticism and emotional breakdown amid poor form). But it does feel bad (when there is criticism). That is going to happen in India because people have a lot of expectations from you. After I scored three ducks, Surya, GG sir and Hardik Pandya came to me and said, ‘Phone pakad, social media hata abhi ke abhi [take your phone and uninstall social media right now]'," Abhishek revealed during a chat on India Today enclave.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“That was the first thing I did after my second zero. That actually helped me a bit. I was getting a lot of suggestions and comments from people.&nbsp;</p><p>That’s how a cricketer’s life is. You have to listen, and you will be criticised. All you can do is listen and ignore. That is because they have a lot of expectations from you. Sometimes you deliver, and sometimes you don’t. I expected this,” he continued.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Although he scored his first runs against South Africa, Abhishek slowly roared back to form against Zimbabwe, slamming his first ICC event fifty. Having struggled against the West Indies and England during the fag end, Abhishek kept his best for the last against New Zealand in the final, where he hit an 18-ball fifty to help India start brilliantly.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>India eventually won the game and defended their T20 crown.&nbsp;</p>

"Uninstall it right now!" Abhishek Sharma reveals the blunt advice from Gautam Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav that saved his T20 World Cup after three straight ducks. From social media blackout to an 18-ball fifty in the final—read his incredible redemption story.

Abhishek Sharma entered the T20 World Cup as the ranked number one batter in the format, and although he retained his spot after India's triumphant campaign, what happened in between did put him under pressure. Abhishek got off to the worst possible start to his maiden ICC event, securing three successive ducks in his first three matches. And if his poor shot selections or lapse in concentration weren’t enough, suffering food poisoning midway through the first half made things worse for him. Who came to his rescue? His head coach Gautam Gambhir, team captain Suryakumar Yadav and senior teammate Hardik Pandya. Fortunately, Abhishek’s poor run at the top didn’t hurt India much, as they won most of their matches, barring the one against South Africa in Super 8; however, he still needed some words of wisdom to maintain his confidence and hunger for runs. While he must have received plenty on the technical front, what helped him maintain his mind’s sanity was the installation of his social media accounts. Also read | ‘Abhishek is brave, but his early stardom invited jealousy’: Sanju Samson Abhishek explains how it did wonders for him. “Slowly, you get used to it (criticism and emotional breakdown amid poor form). But it does feel bad (when there is criticism). That is going to happen in India because people have a lot of expectations from you. After I scored three ducks, Surya, GG sir and Hardik Pandya came to me and said, ‘Phone pakad, social media hata abhi ke abhi [take your phone and uninstall social media right now]'," Abhishek revealed during a chat on India Today enclave. “That was the first thing I did after my second zero. That actually helped me a bit. I was getting a lot of suggestions and comments from people. That’s how a cricketer’s life is. You have to listen, and you will be criticised. All you can do is listen and ignore. That is because they have a lot of expectations from you. Sometimes you deliver, and sometimes you don’t. I expected this,” he continued. Although he scored his first runs against South Africa, Abhishek slowly roared back to form against Zimbabwe, slamming his first ICC event fifty. Having struggled against the West Indies and England during the fag end, Abhishek kept his best for the last against New Zealand in the final, where he hit an 18-ball fifty to help India start brilliantly. India eventually won the game and defended their T20 crown.

<p>"Uninstall it right now!" Abhishek Sharma reveals the blunt advice from Gautam Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav that saved his T20 World Cup after three straight ducks. From social media blackout to an 18-ball fifty in the final—read his incredible redemption story.</p>

‘Uninstalled social media after my second zero’: Abhishek on Gambhir-Surya advice that saved his T20 WC

<p>Recently crowned T20 World Cup-winning pair Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson wreaked havoc during the finale against New Zealand in Ahmedabad, smashing respective fifties and adding 92 runs for the first wicket inside the Powerplay, a record feat. While Samson top-scored with a match-winning 89, his partner Abhishek, who was out of touch for most of the tournament, slammed an 18-ball fifty, helping India post a gigantic 255 for seven in the first innings.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking at the India Today conclave, the pair shared their on-field camaraderie, with Samson not stopping but praising India’s newest cricket sensation. However, Sanju also dropped a bombshell around the dressing room environment, considering Abhishek’s steep rise in T20 cricket.&nbsp;<br>While he broke this notion of being labelled a calmer player of the two, as the narrative sells on the internet, Samson admitted that Abhishek’s rise to fame invited jealousy within the group.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-is-usman-tariq-of-fast-bowlers-pakistan-selector-aaqib-javed-bizarre-comparison-goes-viral-1773551700406"><strong>‘Bumrah is Usman Tariq of Fast Bowlers’: Pakistan selector’s bizarre comparison goes viral</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>"We are not ice and fire, we are fire and fire. Sometimes he fires, sometimes I do. We have that kind of combination going. We have done this since 2024; we have a Kerala-Punjabi friendship in the middle. Everything comes pretty naturally to us, so we do not complicate it.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“He asks me, 'How is the ball coming?' I tell him that the ball is coming normally, and hit it for a six. It is really simple with him. Abhishek is very brave and collected. I love his character. I really love the partnership with him on and off the field," Samson said at the India Today Conclave.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking of growing insecurities among the players with Abhishek’s unusual success rate, Samson said, "Earlier, the boys used to get jealous because of the cheers for Abhishek.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"It was Abhishek, Abhishek everywhere. We were like, ‘Do people only see him or what? But yes, he is the superstar of the team now. Get married soon, bhai," he added.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, despite a shallow run at the top in his maiden ICC tournament, Abhishek retained his place at the top-ranked T20I batter in the world, with Ishan Kishan, who had a breakthrough run in the lead-up to the T20 World Cup and even during it, has climbed two places to the second spot on the rankings.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Samson also jumped 18 spots to sit in the 22nd position, attaining his highest rating points (637) in this format.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>The two, however, will return to action for their respective IPL teams when the 19th edition gets underway later this month. While Abhishek’s SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) will be in action against the defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the tournament opener (Mar 28), Samson, who switched sides ahead of this season, will feature for Chennai Super Kings against Rajasthan Royals at their second home venue in Guwahati on Sunday (Mar 29).&nbsp;</p>

Sanju Samson reveals the truth behind his "fire and fire" partnership with Abhishek Sharma at the India Today Conclave. Discover how the duo’s record-breaking Powerplay fueled India's T20 World Cup win and why Abhishek remains the World No. 1 T20I batter.

Recently crowned T20 World Cup-winning pair Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson wreaked havoc during the finale against New Zealand in Ahmedabad, smashing respective fifties and adding 92 runs for the first wicket inside the Powerplay, a record feat. While Samson top-scored with a match-winning 89, his partner Abhishek, who was out of touch for most of the tournament, slammed an 18-ball fifty, helping India post a gigantic 255 for seven in the first innings. Speaking at the India Today conclave, the pair shared their on-field camaraderie, with Samson not stopping but praising India’s newest cricket sensation. However, Sanju also dropped a bombshell around the dressing room environment, considering Abhishek’s steep rise in T20 cricket. While he broke this notion of being labelled a calmer player of the two, as the narrative sells on the internet, Samson admitted that Abhishek’s rise to fame invited jealousy within the group. Also read | ‘Bumrah is Usman Tariq of Fast Bowlers’: Pakistan selector’s bizarre comparison goes viral "We are not ice and fire, we are fire and fire. Sometimes he fires, sometimes I do. We have that kind of combination going. We have done this since 2024; we have a Kerala-Punjabi friendship in the middle. Everything comes pretty naturally to us, so we do not complicate it. “He asks me, 'How is the ball coming?' I tell him that the ball is coming normally, and hit it for a six. It is really simple with him. Abhishek is very brave and collected. I love his character. I really love the partnership with him on and off the field," Samson said at the India Today Conclave. Speaking of growing insecurities among the players with Abhishek’s unusual success rate, Samson said, "Earlier, the boys used to get jealous because of the cheers for Abhishek. "It was Abhishek, Abhishek everywhere. We were like, ‘Do people only see him or what? But yes, he is the superstar of the team now. Get married soon, bhai," he added. Meanwhile, despite a shallow run at the top in his maiden ICC tournament, Abhishek retained his place at the top-ranked T20I batter in the world, with Ishan Kishan, who had a breakthrough run in the lead-up to the T20 World Cup and even during it, has climbed two places to the second spot on the rankings. Samson also jumped 18 spots to sit in the 22nd position, attaining his highest rating points (637) in this format. The two, however, will return to action for their respective IPL teams when the 19th edition gets underway later this month. While Abhishek’s SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) will be in action against the defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the tournament opener (Mar 28), Samson, who switched sides ahead of this season, will feature for Chennai Super Kings against Rajasthan Royals at their second home venue in Guwahati on Sunday (Mar 29).

<p>Sanju Samson reveals the truth behind his "fire and fire" partnership with Abhishek Sharma at the India Today Conclave. Discover how the duo’s record-breaking Powerplay fueled India's T20 World Cup win and why Abhishek remains the World No. 1 T20I batter.</p>

‘Abhishek is brave, but his early stardom invited jealousy’: Sanju Samson

<p>Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting praised the leadership of India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav during his first ICC Men’s T20 World Cup as skipper and said that although Suryakumar did not perform very well with the bat, but he still did an excellent job leading the team. During the tournament, the 35-year-old scored 242 runs in nine innings and his best performance was an important unbeaten innings of 84 runs from 49 balls against the United States, which helped save the match for India.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking on The ICC Review, Ponting explained that leadership is not only about what happens on the field. He added that a captain’s work off the field, including communication and supporting teammates is equally important.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Ponting added that it can be very difficult to captain a team when a player is not in top batting form. On the other hand, when a captain is scoring runs consistently, leading the team becomes much easier.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“It’s about a lot more about what they do off the field, the things that people don’t see and how they interact with their players,” Ponting said, on The ICC Review.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“He didn’t have a great time himself as a player, but still he’s standing at the end holding up a World Cup trophy. I know as a former captain, when you’re not batting at your absolute best, captaincy can become really difficult. And when you are batting well, captaincy can become really easy.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/delhi-capitals-kevin-pietersen-steps-down-as-mentor-ahead-of-ipl-2026-1773494646375"><strong>Delhi Capitals’ Kevin Pietersen steps down as mentor ahead of IPL 2026</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He also said that the true example of Suryakumar’s leadership would be seen in how he supported players like Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson in recent weeks. According to Ponting, leadership is not only about guiding the team’s main players but also about helping younger or struggling players regain confidence and improve their form.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“It would have been really interesting to see how Surya has interacted with Abhishek and Sanju Samson over the last few weeks. That’s where the real stories will come out on true leadership.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“You don’t have to worry about the staples, it’s more the guys on the fringe and the younger guys going up and down with their emotions and battling with their form, the ones you have to spend the most time with,” said Ponting.</p>

Apart from an unbeaten 84 off 49 balls against the United States in the opening game in Mumbai, the Suryakumar Yadav managed only 158 runs across his remaining eight innings.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting praised the leadership of India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav during his first ICC Men’s T20 World Cup as skipper and said that although Suryakumar did not perform very well with the bat, but he still did an excellent job leading the team. During the tournament, the 35-year-old scored 242 runs in nine innings and his best performance was an important unbeaten innings of 84 runs from 49 balls against the United States, which helped save the match for India. Speaking on The ICC Review, Ponting explained that leadership is not only about what happens on the field. He added that a captain’s work off the field, including communication and supporting teammates is equally important. Ponting added that it can be very difficult to captain a team when a player is not in top batting form. On the other hand, when a captain is scoring runs consistently, leading the team becomes much easier. “It’s about a lot more about what they do off the field, the things that people don’t see and how they interact with their players,” Ponting said, on The ICC Review. “He didn’t have a great time himself as a player, but still he’s standing at the end holding up a World Cup trophy. I know as a former captain, when you’re not batting at your absolute best, captaincy can become really difficult. And when you are batting well, captaincy can become really easy.” Also Read - Delhi Capitals’ Kevin Pietersen steps down as mentor ahead of IPL 2026 He also said that the true example of Suryakumar’s leadership would be seen in how he supported players like Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson in recent weeks. According to Ponting, leadership is not only about guiding the team’s main players but also about helping younger or struggling players regain confidence and improve their form. “It would have been really interesting to see how Surya has interacted with Abhishek and Sanju Samson over the last few weeks. That’s where the real stories will come out on true leadership.” “You don’t have to worry about the staples, it’s more the guys on the fringe and the younger guys going up and down with their emotions and battling with their form, the ones you have to spend the most time with,” said Ponting.

<p>Apart from an unbeaten 84 off 49 balls against the United States in the opening game in Mumbai, the Suryakumar Yadav managed only 158 runs across his remaining eight innings.</p>

'When you’re not batting at your best...': Ricky Ponting reflects on Suryakumar Yadav’s T20 World Cup captaincy

<p>After India’s victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, captain Suryakumar Yadav shared a heartfelt message for fans as the trophy returned home. In the final held in Ahmedabad on Mar 8, India delivered a dominant performance with both bat and ball to defeat New Zealand by 76 runs. With this victory, India became the first team in the tournament’s history to successfully defend their title. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) later released a special video dedicated to supporters. In the video, Suryakumar thanked fans for their constant encouragement and blessings throughout the campaign.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He explained that the trophy represents the dreams of young children who pick up a bat and ball hoping to play for India one day. It also belongs to the fans who pack stadiums and the millions who cheer for the team from their homes. According to him, the love and prayers of supporters gave the players the strength to bring the trophy back. He added that in India, cricket is more than a sport, it is a emotion shared by everyone.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-sunrisers-leeds-x-account-got-suspended-is-it-because-they-signed-pak-s-abrar-ahmed-1773379640529"><strong>Sunrisers buy Pakistan's spinner in Hundred. Now their X handle is suspended</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Dear Team India fans. First of all, a heartfelt thank you. We are here only because of your support and blessings. This World Cup trophy belongs to the entire country. When we won, it wasn’t just our victory."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"It was the dream of those kids who hold a bat and ball and imagine a future. It was for the fans who fill the stadiums. And for the millions who support us from their homes. Your prayers and unconditional love have given us the strength to bring this trophy home. In India, cricket is not just a game — it’s an emotion. And this victory belongs to all of you. "Thank you for believing in us. The trophy is home," said Suryakumar in the video.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/did-medvedev-cheat-watch-draper-s-indian-wells-title-defence-ends-amid-hindrance-call-controversy-1773385674156"><strong>Did Medvedev cheat? Draper's Indian Wells title defence ends amid hindrance call controversy - WATCH</strong></a></p><h2>Check the video below:</h2>

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<h2>Suryakumar aims for Olympic glory</h2><p>Winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is an important milestone for Suryakumar as captain, especially since India has remained unbeaten in both bilateral series and multi-team tournaments under his leadership. Despite this success, he has already set his sights on bigger goals, including winning a gold medal at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and securing a third consecutive T20 World Cup title.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Next goal is Olympics gold and the T20 World Cup which is also in that year," said Suryakumar.</p>

In an emotional video released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday on X, Suryakumar thanked fans for their constant encouragement and blessings throughout the campaign.

After India’s victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, captain Suryakumar Yadav shared a heartfelt message for fans as the trophy returned home. In the final held in Ahmedabad on Mar 8, India delivered a dominant performance with both bat and ball to defeat New Zealand by 76 runs. With this victory, India became the first team in the tournament’s history to successfully defend their title. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) later released a special video dedicated to supporters. In the video, Suryakumar thanked fans for their constant encouragement and blessings throughout the campaign. He explained that the trophy represents the dreams of young children who pick up a bat and ball hoping to play for India one day. It also belongs to the fans who pack stadiums and the millions who cheer for the team from their homes. According to him, the love and prayers of supporters gave the players the strength to bring the trophy back. He added that in India, cricket is more than a sport, it is a emotion shared by everyone. Also Read - Sunrisers buy Pakistan's spinner in Hundred. Now their X handle is suspended "Dear Team India fans. First of all, a heartfelt thank you. We are here only because of your support and blessings. This World Cup trophy belongs to the entire country. When we won, it wasn’t just our victory." "It was the dream of those kids who hold a bat and ball and imagine a future. It was for the fans who fill the stadiums. And for the millions who support us from their homes. Your prayers and unconditional love have given us the strength to bring this trophy home. In India, cricket is not just a game — it’s an emotion. And this victory belongs to all of you. "Thank you for believing in us. The trophy is home," said Suryakumar in the video. Also Read - Did Medvedev cheat? Draper's Indian Wells title defence ends amid hindrance call controversy - WATCH Check the video below:

<p>In an emotional video released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday on X, Suryakumar thanked fans for their constant encouragement and blessings throughout the campaign.</p>

WATCH | ‘Trophy is home’: Suryakumar Yadav’s special message for Team India fans after T20 World Cup win

<p>A complaint has been registered against Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya for disrespecting the national flag during celebrations after winning the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. The complaint was filed by Pune-based advocate Wajid Khan Bidkar at the Shivaji Nagar police station in Maharashtra, accusing Pandya of insulting the national flag during the on-field celebrations after the victory in the final against New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (Mar 8).</p><p><br>The complaint has been filed after multiple videos from the victory celebrations surfaced on social media showing Hardik Pandya celebrating and dancing with the national flag. In another clip, he was also seen lying on the stage with the flag wrapped around him while continuing the celebrations.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I have never seen Bigger Cringe attention seekers than Hardik Pandya and Mahieka<br><br>Other players also celebrate with their Wives or Girlfriends on the field, but no one behaves like this<br><br> <a href="https://t.co/knGs844HyZ">pic.twitter.com/knGs844HyZ</a></p>&mdash; Veena Jain (@Vtxt21) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vtxt21/status/2030928191234490584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Advocate Wajid Khan Bidkar has contended that the act shows disrespect to the national flag and breaches the provisions of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. “ Hardik Pandya was dancing with his girlfriend in celebration of his victory. The national flag was tied to his back. According to Section 2 of the 1971 National Flag Act, we should respect the dignity of the national flag. However, Hardik Pandya was so lost in the celebration of his victory that he was lying with his girlfriend, wearing the national flag,” he said, Indian news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Pune: Advocate Wajid Khan says, &quot;You must have seen the T20 World Cup here. Hardik Pandya was dancing with his girlfriend in celebration of his victory. The national flag was tied to his back... According to Section 2 of the 1971 National Flag Act, we should respect the… <a href="https://t.co/mHVHn336ql">pic.twitter.com/mHVHn336ql</a></p>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2031902998067032117?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>The national flag represents the entire nation</h3><p>He said the police initially raised questions about jurisdiction since the incident took place in Ahmedabad. However, Khan maintained that a complaint could still be lodged because the national flag represents the entire country.</p><p><br>“When I went to file the complaint, they told me the incident occurred there, not here. I told them the national flag is a symbol of the entire nation, and we can file a complaint here. They have accepted my complaint and given me a copy,” he said.</p><p><br>A police official at the Shivaji Nagar Police Station confirmed that the application had been received, but declined to share further details about any possible action.</p><h3>Fundamental duty to respect the flag</h3><p>According to Article 51A(a) of the Constitution, it is the fundamental duty of every citizen of India to "abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag and the National Anthem". This duty was added by the 42nd Amendment Act in 1976 to foster patriotism and national unity.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, criminalises the desecration of or insult to the National Flag, which is punishable by up to three years of imprisonment or with a fine, or both.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winter-paralympics-watch-german-athletes-deny-selfie-with-russians-after-turning-back-at-podium-1773290916123">Winter Paralympics | WATCH - German athletes deny selfie with Russians after turning back at podium</a><br>&nbsp;</p>

The complaint was filed by Pune-based advocate Wajid Khan Bidkar at the Shivaji Nagar police station in Maharashtra, accusing Pandya of insulting the national flag during on-field celebrations after the victory in the final match.

A complaint has been registered against Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya for disrespecting the national flag during celebrations after winning the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. The complaint was filed by Pune-based advocate Wajid Khan Bidkar at the Shivaji Nagar police station in Maharashtra, accusing Pandya of insulting the national flag during the on-field celebrations after the victory in the final against New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (Mar 8). The complaint has been filed after multiple videos from the victory celebrations surfaced on social media showing Hardik Pandya celebrating and dancing with the national flag. In another clip, he was also seen lying on the stage with the flag wrapped around him while continuing the celebrations.

<p>The complaint was filed by Pune-based advocate Wajid Khan Bidkar at the Shivaji Nagar police station in Maharashtra, accusing Pandya of insulting the national flag during on-field celebrations after the victory in the final match.</p>

'Lying...wearing the national flag': Pune-based advocate files police complaint against India cricketer Hardik Pandya

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced at whopping INR 131 crore ($15 million approx) award for the T20 World Cup 2026 winning Indian team. The prize was announced on Tuesday (Mar 10), two days after India beat New Zealand by 96 runs in the final on Sunday (Mar 8) at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With the win, India became the first team ever to win three T20 World Cup titles, defend the World Cup title as well as win a T20 World Cup title at home. India, which had won the inaugural T20 World Cup 2007, had entered the 2026 edition as defending champion after winning the T20 World Cup 2024 by beating South Africa in the final.</p><h2>BCCI congratulates Team India on historic World Cup trimuph</h2><p>In a statement issued on Tuesday (Mar 10), BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia congratulated Suryakumar Yadav-led team and said: “The Board congratulates the players, support staff and selectors once again on this historic achievement and wishes them continued success in the future.”</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-dhurandhars-flaunt-dominance-as-india-rewrite-t20-dynasty-with-triumphant-campaign-in-ahmedabad-new-zealand-world-cup-final-96-runs-1773072033030">Cricket's ‘Dhurandhars’ flaunt dominance as IND rewrite T20 dynasty in Ahmedabad</a></p><p>“The board has announced a cash reward of INR 131 crore for Team India following their triumphant campaign in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026,” it further read.</p><h2>How India won the T20 World Cup 2026?</h2><p>The Indian cricket team was patchy in its performance throughout the tournament before the final. They had won all their group stage matches and but lost to South Africa in Super 8 in Ahmedabad which put their qualification for semis in doubt. A reinvigorated Sanju Samson then played a blinder of 97 not out vs West Indies in the virtual quarter-final to help India enter the semis.</p><p>In the penultimate match against England, India's batting showed the mighty power - scoring 250+ but had a scare from Jacob Bethell who scored a brilliant 105. It was India's cheat code bowler Jasprit Bumrah who bowled two economical overs in the death against England as India advanced to the home final.</p><p>Come the biggest moment, India played like the number 1 team they are and put on a clinical show, first with the bat by scoring 255/5 in 20 overs, and then with the ball - bowling out NZ for 159 for a mammoth 96-run win to the lift the trophy.</p><p><i><strong>More to follow…</strong></i></p>

BCCI awards INR 131 crore or $15 million approx to T20 World Cup 2026 Indian team.

India beat NZ in the final on Sunday (Mar 8) at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

India now have three T20 World Cup title (2007, 2024 and 2026) - the most by any team.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced at whopping INR 131 crore ($15 million approx) award for the T20 World Cup 2026 winning Indian team. The prize was announced on Tuesday (Mar 10), two days after India beat New Zealand by 96 runs in the final on Sunday (Mar 8) at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With the win, India became the first team ever to win three T20 World Cup titles, defend the World Cup title as well as win a T20 World Cup title at home. India, which had won the inaugural T20 World Cup 2007, had entered the 2026 edition as defending champion after winning the T20 World Cup 2024 by beating South Africa in the final. BCCI congratulates Team India on historic World Cup trimuph In a statement issued on Tuesday (Mar 10), BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia congratulated Suryakumar Yadav-led team and said: “The Board congratulates the players, support staff and selectors once again on this historic achievement and wishes them continued success in the future.” Also Read - Cricket's ‘Dhurandhars’ flaunt dominance as IND rewrite T20 dynasty in Ahmedabad “The board has announced a cash reward of INR 131 crore for Team India following their triumphant campaign in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026,” it further read. How India won the T20 World Cup 2026? The Indian cricket team was patchy in its performance throughout the tournament before the final. They had won all their group stage matches and but lost to South Africa in Super 8 in Ahmedabad which put their qualification for semis in doubt. A reinvigorated Sanju Samson then played a blinder of 97 not out vs West Indies in the virtual quarter-final to help India enter the semis. In the penultimate match against England, India's batting showed the mighty power - scoring 250+ but had a scare from Jacob Bethell who scored a brilliant 105. It was India's cheat code bowler Jasprit Bumrah who bowled two economical overs in the death against England as India advanced to the home final. Come the biggest moment, India played like the number 1 team they are and put on a clinical show, first with the bat by scoring 255/5 in 20 overs, and then with the ball - bowling out NZ for 159 for a mammoth 96-run win to the lift the trophy. More to follow…

<p>BCCI awards INR 131 crore or $15 million approx to T20 World Cup 2026 Indian team.</p><p>India beat NZ in the final on Sunday (Mar 8) at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.</p><p>India now have three T20 World Cup title (2007, 2024 and 2026) - the most by any team.</p>

BCCI announces bumper prize money for T20 World Cup 2026 winning Indian team

<p>India’s big victory in the 2026 T20 World Cup final led to strong reactions around the world, especially in Pakistan. Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar made a controversial comment, saying India’s dominance has “ruined cricket.” In the final, India comfortably defeated New Zealand by 96 runs at Narendra Modi Stadium and the win gave India their third T20 World Cup title. Many cricket experts praised India for their excellent performance, but Akhtar shared a different view during the Tapmad show Game On Hai.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He compared India to a wealthy child controlling a neighborhood cricket match. According to him, it is like a rich kid inviting poorer children to play and deciding the rules. He suggested that India chooses a small group of teams, competes among them and then claims victory, which he believes has harmed the spirit of the game.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>'It’s like when there’s one rich kid in a neighbourhood who calls all the poor kids and says, ‘Come, let’s play cricket.’</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>That’s exactly what India is doing with us. Out of eight teams, they keep four, and out of those four they call three again and move forward, and then they say, ‘See, I’ve won.’ They have ruined cricket entirely,” Akhtar said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-samson-s-career-on-the-line-gambhir-praises-sanju-for-showing-character-courage-in-india-s-t20-triumph-1773061737299"><strong>Was Samson’s career on the line? Gambhir praises Sanju for showing character, courage in India’s T20 triumph</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Interestingly, Akhtar had a different opinion before the final. He said India were the favourites to win but hoped New Zealand would take the title “for the sake of cricket.” He also mentioned that India might feel the pressure of expectations from their large population. Even so, he believed India still had the best chance to win.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“I feel New Zealand might be bogged down in front of India, but India also have the pressure of 1.5 billion people. They have already lost a match in the World Cup final to Australia in Ahmedabad. I see India as the winner out of all this, but for cricket's sake, it's high time New Zealand won this World Cup,” he had said earlier.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Despite his criticism, Akhtar acknowledged one key reason behind India’s success and praised head coach Gautam Gambhir for standing by his players during difficult times. Akhtar said that such trust and support from a coach can help a team perform better in big tournaments.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>By beating New Zealand in Ahmedabad, India’s victory created history, as they became the first team to successfully defend the Men’s T20 World Cup title, the first to win the tournament three times and the first to lift the trophy on home soil.</p>

Despite his criticism, Akhtar acknowledged one key reason behind India’s success and praised head coach Gautam Gambhir for standing by his players during difficult times. 

India’s big victory in the 2026 T20 World Cup final led to strong reactions around the world, especially in Pakistan. Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar made a controversial comment, saying India’s dominance has “ruined cricket.” In the final, India comfortably defeated New Zealand by 96 runs at Narendra Modi Stadium and the win gave India their third T20 World Cup title. Many cricket experts praised India for their excellent performance, but Akhtar shared a different view during the Tapmad show Game On Hai. He compared India to a wealthy child controlling a neighborhood cricket match. According to him, it is like a rich kid inviting poorer children to play and deciding the rules. He suggested that India chooses a small group of teams, competes among them and then claims victory, which he believes has harmed the spirit of the game. 'It’s like when there’s one rich kid in a neighbourhood who calls all the poor kids and says, ‘Come, let’s play cricket.’ That’s exactly what India is doing with us. Out of eight teams, they keep four, and out of those four they call three again and move forward, and then they say, ‘See, I’ve won.’ They have ruined cricket entirely,” Akhtar said. Also Read - Was Samson’s career on the line? Gambhir praises Sanju for showing character, courage in India’s T20 triumph Interestingly, Akhtar had a different opinion before the final. He said India were the favourites to win but hoped New Zealand would take the title “for the sake of cricket.” He also mentioned that India might feel the pressure of expectations from their large population. Even so, he believed India still had the best chance to win. “I feel New Zealand might be bogged down in front of India, but India also have the pressure of 1.5 billion people. They have already lost a match in the World Cup final to Australia in Ahmedabad. I see India as the winner out of all this, but for cricket's sake, it's high time New Zealand won this World Cup,” he had said earlier. Despite his criticism, Akhtar acknowledged one key reason behind India’s success and praised head coach Gautam Gambhir for standing by his players during difficult times. Akhtar said that such trust and support from a coach can help a team perform better in big tournaments. By beating New Zealand in Ahmedabad, India’s victory created history, as they became the first team to successfully defend the Men’s T20 World Cup title, the first to win the tournament three times and the first to lift the trophy on home soil.

<p>Despite his criticism, Akhtar acknowledged one key reason behind India’s success and praised head coach Gautam Gambhir for standing by his players during difficult times.&nbsp;</p>

‘India have ruined cricket’: Shoaib Akhtar reacts to India’s historic T20 World Cup triumph

<p>Even though Arshdeep Singh did not take a wicket in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final, he still grabbed attention after the match with his funny social media videos. After India defeated New Zealand by 96 runs, Arshdeep shared several entertaining clips on his Instagram. India had earlier posted 255 while batting first, before bowling New Zealand out for 159 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad to seal their third T20 World Cup title.</p><h3>Arshdeep’s reels go viral</h3><p>Arshdeep, known for his humour other than his lethal fast bowling, recorded fun moments with his teammates while the team was celebrating the big win. In one video with Sanju Samson, who was named Player of the Tournament, Arshdeep jokingly said, “Justice mil gaya” (We got justice). The comment was a playful reference to Samson’s fans, who had long demanded that he get more consistent opportunities in the team.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Arshdeep also approached India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir and jokingly asked him to smile sometimes. Gambhir laughed and responded with the phrase “Singh is King,” teasing Arshdeep back. The pacer continued making similar fun videos with other Indian players as well.</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVogw-Xk3CK/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVogw-Xk3CK/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; 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<h3>Varun’s dance steals attention</h3><p>Another moment that quickly went viral featured Varun Chakravarthy celebrating in his own style. The spinner performed a joyful dance while holding the trophy, moving his legs excitedly as his teammates celebrated around him. The commentators covering the match were also heard laughing as they watched his celebration.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">varun chakaravarthy smiling, laughing, dancing i have seen everything 😭 <a href="https://t.co/Iq3hN93SOs">pic.twitter.com/Iq3hN93SOs</a></p>&mdash; s (@_Lazy_being) <a href="https://twitter.com/_Lazy_being/status/2030716643207479751?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Meanwhile, India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav shared a humorous post on X. He reposted a 12-year-old tweet of himself with an old picture and wrote, “So happy for this guy today,” joking about how far he had come since then.&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">So happy for this guy today 💙🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/EBjgkFqwWQ">https://t.co/EBjgkFqwWQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/SPSfoISWMZ">pic.twitter.com/SPSfoISWMZ</a></p>&mdash; Surya Kumar Yadav (@surya_14kumar) <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar/status/2030755017842684392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Head coach Gambhir also took to social media and said, “ this wasn’t just God’s plan, it was the plan of 1.4 Billion Indians! Each player a WORLD CHAMPION!.”</p>

Another moment that quickly went viral featured Varun Chakravarthy celebrating in his own style. The spinner performed a joyful dance while holding the trophy, moving his legs excitedly as his teammates celebrated around him.

Even though Arshdeep Singh did not take a wicket in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final, he still grabbed attention after the match with his funny social media videos. After India defeated New Zealand by 96 runs, Arshdeep shared several entertaining clips on his Instagram. India had earlier posted 255 while batting first, before bowling New Zealand out for 159 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad to seal their third T20 World Cup title. Arshdeep’s reels go viral Arshdeep, known for his humour other than his lethal fast bowling, recorded fun moments with his teammates while the team was celebrating the big win. In one video with Sanju Samson, who was named Player of the Tournament, Arshdeep jokingly said, “Justice mil gaya” (We got justice). The comment was a playful reference to Samson’s fans, who had long demanded that he get more consistent opportunities in the team.

<p>Another moment that quickly went viral featured Varun Chakravarthy celebrating in his own style. The spinner performed a joyful dance while holding the trophy, moving his legs excitedly as his teammates celebrated around him.</p>

'Justice for Samson’: Arshdeep’s reels go viral after India’s T20 World Cup win

<p>India secured a historic win in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final, defeating New Zealand by a huge margin of 96 runs. During the match, a short on-field moment between Arshdeep Singh and Daryl Mitchell drew attention. The Indian fast bowler later apologised to Mitchell both on the field and after the match, ensuring the situation ended respectfully. The Men in Blue beat New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, winning their third T20 World Cup title and becoming the first team to successfully defend the trophy. In front of more than 86,000 fans, the Indian side dominated with both bat and ball.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>However, during New Zealand’s chase, a brief moment of tension occurred in the 11th over, when Mitchell had already hit Arshdeep for two consecutive sixes, putting the bowler under pressure. On the fifth ball, Mitchell played the shot straight back to the bowler and while finishing his action, Arshdeep picked up the ball and quickly tried to throw it at the stumps at the striker’s end. The throw missed and accidentally struck Mitchell on the thigh.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-new-zealand-in-ahmedabad-to-win-3rd-t20-world-cup-title-script-history-sanju-samson-abhishek-sharma-jasprit-bumrah-shivam-dube-1772987200533"><strong>T20 World Cup 2026: India crush New Zealand in Ahmedabad to win record 3rd title, script history</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Mitchell looked unhappy and walked toward the bowler, showing his frustration with animated gestures. For a few moments, both players exchanged words and the atmosphere on the field became tense.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav quickly stepped in to calm things down and spoke to Mitchell while the umpire also talked to Arshdeep. Their intervention helped to settle the situation before it got worse.</p><h3>Watch the video below</h3>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="et" dir="ltr">Final Hungama : Daryl Mitchell 🆚 Arshdeep Singh <br><br>Surya ಬಂದ ಮೇಲೆ ಎಲ್ಲವೂ ಶಾಂತ... SKY Handle ಮಾಡಿದ ರೀತಿ ನಿಜಕ್ಕೂ ಅದ್ಬುತ!👏🏻🤝🏻<br><br>ವೀಕ್ಷಿಸಿ | ICC Men’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> 👉🏻 FINAL | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> | LIVE NOW | ನಿಮ್ಮ Star Sports ಕನ್ನಡ &amp; JioHotstar ನಲ್ಲಿ.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup2026Final?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup2026Final</a> <a href="https://t.co/K4ECnGh9ra">pic.twitter.com/K4ECnGh9ra</a></p>&mdash; Star Sports Kannada (@StarSportsKan) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsKan/status/2030688420776018354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Speaking after the match, Arshdeep said the throw was not intentional and explained that the ball swung unexpectedly in the air, which is why it struck Mitchell. He added that he apologised immediately after the over and once again after the match when India were celebrating their victory.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Just went to apologise to Mitchell. My throw reverse-swung and hit him so just wanted to say sorry to him for that. It was not intentional,” said Arshdeep.</p>

With this victory, India lifted their third T20 World Cup trophy, adding to their earlier titles in 2007 and 2024.

India secured a historic win in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final, defeating New Zealand by a huge margin of 96 runs. During the match, a short on-field moment between Arshdeep Singh and Daryl Mitchell drew attention. The Indian fast bowler later apologised to Mitchell both on the field and after the match, ensuring the situation ended respectfully. The Men in Blue beat New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, winning their third T20 World Cup title and becoming the first team to successfully defend the trophy. In front of more than 86,000 fans, the Indian side dominated with both bat and ball. However, during New Zealand’s chase, a brief moment of tension occurred in the 11th over, when Mitchell had already hit Arshdeep for two consecutive sixes, putting the bowler under pressure. On the fifth ball, Mitchell played the shot straight back to the bowler and while finishing his action, Arshdeep picked up the ball and quickly tried to throw it at the stumps at the striker’s end. The throw missed and accidentally struck Mitchell on the thigh.

<p>With this victory, India lifted their third T20 World Cup trophy, adding to their earlier titles in 2007 and 2024.</p>

T20 World Cup 2026, Final | WATCH: Arshdeep apologises to Daryl Mitchell after on-field spat

India's Sanju Samson won the Player of the Series, Jasprit Bumrah was POTM in Final, Pak's Sahibzada Farhan scored 383 runs - the most in the tournament and India's Bumrah and Varun Chakaravarthy took 14 wickets each - the most in the tournament.

T20 World Cup 2026 Awards List: Player of the Match in Final, Player of the Series, best batter, bowler and more - Check Full List Inside

History has been scripted in Ahmedabad as India beat New Zealand by 96 runs in the T20 World Cup Final. India become the first team to successfully defend the T20 World Cup title, the first side to win it three times, and the first team to lift the trophy on home soil.

Massive Victory! India Defeat New Zealand in T20 Final

Team India star Suryakumar Yadav visited the Hanuman Temple in Ahmedabad to offer prayers following India’s thrilling T20 World Cup 2026 victory. Fans and devotees gathered to catch a glimpse of the cricketing hero as he thanked the divine for India’s back-to-back championship win.

T20 World Cup Victory: Suryakumar Yadav Offers Prayers at Ahmedabad Hanuman Temple 

<p>India skipper Suryakumar Yada, who led the team to T20 World Cup 2026 victory on Sunday (Mar 8) at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahemdabad, has set a new goal. SKY said that that team will now focus on LA 28 Olympics gold medal where cricket is making a comeback after decades. India are currently the undisputed white-ball champions, having won the T20 World Cup 2024 and Champions Trophy 2025 before winning the T20 World Cup 2026. The Men in Blue are the only team to win three T20 WC titles (2007, 2024, &amp; 2026) as well as first to defend it and also win at home.</p><h2>SKY sets new target for India after T20 World Cup 2026 victory</h2><p>"Throughout the journey till today it has been very special and collectively as a team what we have achieved I think is right in front of you [trophy]. So, [I'm] very happy with that and the next goal is the Olympic gold and also the team that we work with," SKY said during the post-match reaction.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-win-t20-wc-2026-never-mattered-to-me-says-coach-gambhir-on-players-mentality-after-record-title-win-1773018781158">INDIA WIN T20 WC 2026 | 'Never mattered to me,' coach Gambhir lauds players' mentality after record title win</a></p><p>The LA28 Olympics will be played from July 14 and 29 nearly two years later in Los Angeles, USA. Top six teams in the ICC men's and women's rankings, one each from a continent, will qualify for the Olympics and India men's team is all but sure to qualify from Asia. All the matches will be played at the temporary Fairgrounds Stadium, in the city of Pomona, about 50km from Los Angeles.</p><h2>India break Ahmedabad curse</h2><p>Before the final began on Sunday, the Indian fans were on edge with the heartbreaking memories of 2023 ODI World Cup final loss at the same venue still fresh in their mind. The match, however, was nothing like the horror on November 19, 2023 when India were bowled out for just 240 runs in a 50-over contest.</p><p>On Sunday, India smahsed the leather of the ball, scoring 255/5 in 20 over and then bowled out New Zealand for just 159 runs, winning the match by 96 runs - everything a record in T20 World Cup history.</p>

India are currently the undisputed white-ball champions, having won the T20 World Cup 2024 and Champions Trophy 2025 before winning the T20 World Cup 2026. SKY said that that team will now focus on LA 28 Olympics gold medal where cricket is making a comeback after decades.

India skipper Suryakumar Yada, who led the team to T20 World Cup 2026 victory on Sunday (Mar 8) at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahemdabad, has set a new goal. SKY said that that team will now focus on LA 28 Olympics gold medal where cricket is making a comeback after decades. India are currently the undisputed white-ball champions, having won the T20 World Cup 2024 and Champions Trophy 2025 before winning the T20 World Cup 2026. The Men in Blue are the only team to win three T20 WC titles (2007, 2024, & 2026) as well as first to defend it and also win at home. SKY sets new target for India after T20 World Cup 2026 victory "Throughout the journey till today it has been very special and collectively as a team what we have achieved I think is right in front of you [trophy]. So, [I'm] very happy with that and the next goal is the Olympic gold and also the team that we work with," SKY said during the post-match reaction. Also Read - INDIA WIN T20 WC 2026 | 'Never mattered to me,' coach Gambhir lauds players' mentality after record title win The LA28 Olympics will be played from July 14 and 29 nearly two years later in Los Angeles, USA. Top six teams in the ICC men's and women's rankings, one each from a continent, will qualify for the Olympics and India men's team is all but sure to qualify from Asia. All the matches will be played at the temporary Fairgrounds Stadium, in the city of Pomona, about 50km from Los Angeles. India break Ahmedabad curse Before the final began on Sunday, the Indian fans were on edge with the heartbreaking memories of 2023 ODI World Cup final loss at the same venue still fresh in their mind. The match, however, was nothing like the horror on November 19, 2023 when India were bowled out for just 240 runs in a 50-over contest. On Sunday, India smahsed the leather of the ball, scoring 255/5 in 20 over and then bowled out New Zealand for just 159 runs, winning the match by 96 runs - everything a record in T20 World Cup history.

<p>India are currently the undisputed white-ball champions, having won the T20 World Cup 2024 and Champions Trophy 2025 before winning the T20 World Cup 2026. SKY said that that team will now focus on LA 28 Olympics gold medal where cricket is making a comeback after decades.</p>

INDIA WIN T20 WC 2026 | Skipper SKY sets new target for team and it is not another T20 World Cup title

<p>India head coach gauta Gambhir lauded the players' team first mentality after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-new-zealand-in-ahmedabad-to-win-3rd-t20-world-cup-title-script-history-sanju-samson-abhishek-sharma-jasprit-bumrah-shivam-dube-1772987200533">record third T20 World Cup title win</a> on Sunday (Mar 8) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Gambhir, who had won the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 under MS Dhoni, has now led India to two back-to-back ICC white-ball trophies. Before the T20 World Cup 2026 title win, India had also won the Champions Trophy 2025 as well. The Indian head coach, at the post-match presentation, also vowed to never let personal milestone come in the way of team.</p><h2>What India coach Gambhir said about personal milestones after T20 WC title win?</h2><p>"My simple philosophy, and Surya's too, has always been that milestones don't matter. It's the trophies that matter. For too long in Indian cricket, we have spoken about milestones. And I hope, till I am there, we are not going to talk about milestones," said the head coach at the post-match presentation.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-ishan-kishan-dedicates-title-win-to-cousin-who-died-a-day-before-final-1773016829832">T20 World Cup 2026 | Ishan Kishan dedicates title win to cousin who 'died a day before final'</a></p><p>The coach also invoked Player of the Tournament Sanju Samson's example to explain on his ideology and said: "You can see the last three games what Sanju [Samson] did. 97 not out, 89, 88. Imagine if he had been playing for a milestone, probably we wouldn't have got 250. So stop celebrating milestones, celebrate trophies. The bigger purpose of a team sport is to win trophies, not score individual runs. It has never mattered to me, and it will never matter to me."</p><h2>Why did Gambhir thank Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman for India's T20 WC win?</h2><p>The India coach also thanked his predecessor Rahul Dravid as well as BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) head VVS Laxman for their invalueable contirbution to the Indian cricket which helped the Suryakumar Yadav's team to win the T20 World Cup 2026 title.</p><p>"I think first of all I should dedicate this trophy to Rahul [Dravid] bhai, and then to VVS Laxman [bhai]," Gambhir said. "Because what Rahul bhai has done to keep Indian cricket in such a good shape during his tenure, I have to thank him for everything. And then VVS Laxman for unconditionally doing so much for Indian cricket behind the doors, because the CoE remains the pipeline for Indian cricket."</p>

Gambhir, who had won the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 under MS Dhoni, has now led India to two back-to-back ICC white-ball trophies. Before the T20 World Cup 2026 title win, India had also won the Champions Trophy 2025 as well.

India head coach gauta Gambhir lauded the players' team first mentality after the record third T20 World Cup title win on Sunday (Mar 8) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Gambhir, who had won the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 under MS Dhoni, has now led India to two back-to-back ICC white-ball trophies. Before the T20 World Cup 2026 title win, India had also won the Champions Trophy 2025 as well. The Indian head coach, at the post-match presentation, also vowed to never let personal milestone come in the way of team. What India coach Gambhir said about personal milestones after T20 WC title win? "My simple philosophy, and Surya's too, has always been that milestones don't matter. It's the trophies that matter. For too long in Indian cricket, we have spoken about milestones. And I hope, till I am there, we are not going to talk about milestones," said the head coach at the post-match presentation. Also Read - T20 World Cup 2026 | Ishan Kishan dedicates title win to cousin who 'died a day before final' The coach also invoked Player of the Tournament Sanju Samson's example to explain on his ideology and said: "You can see the last three games what Sanju [Samson] did. 97 not out, 89, 88. Imagine if he had been playing for a milestone, probably we wouldn't have got 250. So stop celebrating milestones, celebrate trophies. The bigger purpose of a team sport is to win trophies, not score individual runs. It has never mattered to me, and it will never matter to me." Why did Gambhir thank Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman for India's T20 WC win? The India coach also thanked his predecessor Rahul Dravid as well as BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) head VVS Laxman for their invalueable contirbution to the Indian cricket which helped the Suryakumar Yadav's team to win the T20 World Cup 2026 title. "I think first of all I should dedicate this trophy to Rahul [Dravid] bhai, and then to VVS Laxman [bhai]," Gambhir said. "Because what Rahul bhai has done to keep Indian cricket in such a good shape during his tenure, I have to thank him for everything. And then VVS Laxman for unconditionally doing so much for Indian cricket behind the doors, because the CoE remains the pipeline for Indian cricket."

<p>India win record third T20 World Cup title on Sunday (Mar 8).</p><p>India beat New Zealand by 96 runs to defend title.</p><p>Gambhir's second title as coach after leading India to Champions Trophy 2025 win.</p>

INDIA WIN T20 WC 2026 | 'Never mattered to me,' coach Gambhir lauds players' mentality after record title win

<p>India celebrated a historic evening on Sunday (Mar 8) as they beat New Zealand to lift their third T20 World Cup. Playing at the Narendra Modi Stadium, India became the first team to defend their title as well as win the title on home soil. After the win, legendary batters like Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and others congratulated them on the historic triumph. The legends took to their social media handles to show their emotions after India’s win.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Winning the World Cup twice in a row, the first time any team has done so in the T20 format. Totally deserving and rightful winners of the trophy.<br><br>What a fantastic performance by our team and a special brand of cricket on display.<br><br>Well done, Team India. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳🏆</p>&mdash; Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/2030694859976438163?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>Legends celebrate India’s win</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;“Winning the World Cup twice in a row, the first time any team has done so in the T20 format. Totally deserving and rightful winners of the trophy. What a fantastic performance by our team and a special brand of cricket on display. Well done, Team India. Jai Hind,” wrote Sachin Tendulkar on his X handle.&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Pressure?<br>Woh kya hota hai.<br>Our Boys played like it’s a Sunday gully match. <br>World Champions, Bharat🇮🇳🏆, third time in T20 World Cups <a href="https://t.co/t82KDZP34g">pic.twitter.com/t82KDZP34g</a></p>&mdash; Virrender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/2030699237781241902?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>“Pressure? Woh kya hota hai. Our Boys played like it’s a Sunday gully match. World Champions, Bharat, third time in T20 World Cups,” Virender Sehwag wrote on his X handle.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">What a performance from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>! 🇮🇳🏆<br><br>The boys have been outstanding throughout the tournament and delivered on the biggest stage once again. No disappointment with the bat or the ball — pure team effort and champion mindset.<br><br>Brilliant knocks from <a href="https://twitter.com/IamAbhiSharma4?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IamAbhiSharma4</a>,… <a href="https://t.co/QfmkTm1oZJ">pic.twitter.com/QfmkTm1oZJ</a></p>&mdash; Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/2030700892501196931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>“What a performance from #TeamIndia!The boys have been outstanding throughout the tournament and delivered on the biggest stage once again. No disappointment with the bat or the ball — pure team effort and champion mindset. Brilliant knocks from @IamAbhiSharma4, @ishankishan5 &amp; @IamSanjuSamson. And when it comes to big moments, there’s simply no one like @Jaspritbumrah93. What a spell! Special mention to @surya_14kumar for leading the team brilliantly. Proud of this team. True World Champions,” Suresh Raina took to his X handle and wrote.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691"><strong>From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Congratulations Team India in Advance before the network gets too busy . Super proud of our Team JAI HIND @surya_14kumar @Jaspritbumrah93 @ishankishan51 @IamSanjuSamson @hardikpandya7 @akshar2026,” Harbhajan Singh wrote on his X handle.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Congratulations Team India in Advance before the network gets too busy . Super proud of our Team 🇮🇳 JAI HIND <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@surya_14kumar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ishankishan51?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ishankishan51</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IamSanjuSamson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IamSanjuSamson</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/akshar2026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@akshar2026</a> ❤️❤️</p>&mdash; Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/2030692936963481683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>“Thrilling, Scintillating, Amazing, Massive! Heartiest congratulations to Team India on their historic and monumental victory in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, 2026! It was a moment of profound national pride and collective joy to witness the Men in Blue emerge victorious with such clinical precision.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">सारे जहाँ से अच्छा हिन्दोस्ताँ हमारा 🇮🇳<br><br>Thrilling, Scintillating, Amazing, Massive!<br><br>Heartiest congratulations to Team India on their historic and monumental victory in the ICC Men&#39;s T20 World Cup, 2026! It was a moment of profound national pride and collective joy to witness… <a href="https://t.co/y0vGsFhdYn">pic.twitter.com/y0vGsFhdYn</a></p>&mdash; Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dev_Fadnavis/status/2030699935776358692?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>“The players displayed exceptional skills and determination throughout the tournament, making the country proud. Congratulations to Team India on their well-deserved World Cup win and for creating yet another record! Kudos to the composed captaincy of Suryakumar Yadav &amp; team work of the entire squad,” wrote Devandra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra on his X handle.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185"><strong>Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What happened in the match?</strong></h2><p>India won a record third T20 World Cup title and became the first team to defend their crown with a 96-run thumping of New Zealand in a lop-sided final on Sunday. Suryakumar Yadav's India were also the first team to lift the trophy on home soil as over 86,000 fans celebrated at the Narendra Modi Stadium. England and the West Indies have won two titles each. India beat both those teams en route to the title, including a clutch victory over the West Indies in their final Super Eights match when defeat would have seen them eliminated.</p>

After the 2026 T20 World Cup win for India, legendary batters like Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and others congratulated them on the historic triumph. The legends took to their social media handles to show their emotions after India’s win.

India celebrated a historic evening on Sunday (Mar 8) as they beat New Zealand to lift their third T20 World Cup. Playing at the Narendra Modi Stadium, India became the first team to defend their title as well as win the title on home soil. After the win, legendary batters like Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and others congratulated them on the historic triumph. The legends took to their social media handles to show their emotions after India’s win.

<p>After the 2026 T20 World Cup win for India, legendary batters like Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and others congratulated them on the historic triumph. The legends took to their social media handles to show their emotions after India’s win.</p>

India win T20 World Cup 2026: Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag congratulate Men in Blue after historic triumph

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Mar 8) congratulated the Team India for their historic victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, saying the team showed “outstanding grit, determination and teamwork."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In a post on X, he wrote, “Champions! Congratulations to the Indian team on winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup! This remarkable triumph reflects exceptional skills, determination and teamwork. They have shown outstanding grit through the tournament. This victory has filled every Indian heart with pride and joy. Well done, Team India!"</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Champions! <br><br>Congratulations to the Indian team on winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup! <br><br>This remarkable triumph reflects exceptional skills, determination and teamwork. They have shown outstanding grit through the tournament. <br><br>This victory has filled every Indian heart with…</p>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2030693962491847008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>India defeated New Zealand by 96 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With this win, India became the first team to successfully defend their T20 World Cup title and also secured a record third championship.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-new-zealand-in-ahmedabad-to-win-3rd-t20-world-cup-title-script-history-sanju-samson-abhishek-sharma-jasprit-bumrah-shivam-dube-1772987200533"><strong>T20 World Cup 2026: India crush New Zealand in Ahmedabad to win record 3rd title, script history</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Union Home Minister Amit Shah also praised the team, calling it a “victory that has brought glory and pride to the nation."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“What a victory…!! Hats-off to World Champion #TeamIndia. Your exceptional performance throughout the tournament and the vigorous display of mettle has brought glory and pride for the nation," Shah wrote.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/records-shatter-in-ahmedabad-as-ind-post-highest-team-total-in-t20-wc-final-nz-need-256-to-win-1772982287449"><strong>India post highest team total in T20 WC Final; New Zealand need 256 to win</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Google CEO Sundar Pichai took to X and shared, “Congrats India on winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup! chose the wrong game to go watch:) what a stadium and atmosphere. Well played to the other semi finalists, SA, Eng and Nz!! Also so exciting to see the game expand to so many countries and congrats to ICC for a great tournament!"</p>

With this win, India became the first team to successfully defend their T20 World Cup title and also secured a record third championship.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Mar 8) congratulated the Team India for their historic victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, saying the team showed “outstanding grit, determination and teamwork." In a post on X, he wrote, “Champions! Congratulations to the Indian team on winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup! This remarkable triumph reflects exceptional skills, determination and teamwork. They have shown outstanding grit through the tournament. This victory has filled every Indian heart with pride and joy. Well done, Team India!"

<p>With this win, India became the first team to successfully defend their T20 World Cup title and also secured a record third championship.</p>

PM Modi applauds Team India’s T20 World Cup triumph, says they showed ‘outstanding grit’

From MS Dhoni to Suryakumar Yadav, here is a look at five captains to lead India in a World Cup final, men’s senior only. The honourable list also features the likes of Kapil Dev, Sourav Ganguly and Rohit Sharma.

From MS Dhoni to Suryakumar Yadav, 5 captains to lead India in a World Cup final (men’s senior only)

<p>Team India will step into the final of the T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday (Mar 8) as they take on New Zealand in the summit clash. The event at the Narendra Modi Stadium is likely to raise eyebrows, as India has two weak spots to address, with Abhishek Sharma and Varun Chakaravarthy out of form. However, it is the latter’s position that looks in jeopardy as Team India might do the unthinkable and bring in Kuldeep Yadav.</p><h2><strong>Kuldeep in, Varun out for T20 World Cup final?</strong></h2><p>So far in the T20 World Cup, Varun has scalped 13 wickets and on paper, it looks like a good return for the Indian team’s investment. However, it is Varun’s predictable nature with the ball that could see him walk the flame for a place in the Playing XI. In his last four innings with the ball, he has been smashed for a combined 186 runs while scalping just four wickets.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691"><strong>From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Varun’s return of 186/4 in 16 overs has seen him attract critics and could face the heat in the final. His economy rate has become a huge concern for the team management considering India have looted runs against Zimbabwe and England in their recent encounters. In fact, India narrowly avoided a defeat against England in the semis despite scoring 253 runs.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Kuldeep, on the other hand, is yet to feature in a T20 World Cup contest on Indian soil. His only T20 World Cup game was against Pakistan in Colombo, where he had figures of 14/1.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185"><strong>Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>So it will be interesting to see who gets the nod in the final, as India are favourites to win. They have enjoyed a stellar run in the tournament, having lost only one match so far, which was against South Africa in the Super 8. India are also bidding to become the first team to defend their T20 World Cup title, which they also won in 2024.</p>

Varun Chakaravarthy's return of 186/4 in 16 overs has seen him attract critics and could face the heat in the final. His economy rate has become a huge concern for the team management considering India have looted runs against Zimbabwe and England in their recent encounters. 

Team India will step into the final of the T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday (Mar 8) as they take on New Zealand in the summit clash. The event at the Narendra Modi Stadium is likely to raise eyebrows, as India has two weak spots to address, with Abhishek Sharma and Varun Chakaravarthy out of form. However, it is the latter’s position that looks in jeopardy as Team India might do the unthinkable and bring in Kuldeep Yadav. Kuldeep in, Varun out for T20 World Cup final? So far in the T20 World Cup, Varun has scalped 13 wickets and on paper, it looks like a good return for the Indian team’s investment. However, it is Varun’s predictable nature with the ball that could see him walk the flame for a place in the Playing XI. In his last four innings with the ball, he has been smashed for a combined 186 runs while scalping just four wickets. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Varun’s return of 186/4 in 16 overs has seen him attract critics and could face the heat in the final. His economy rate has become a huge concern for the team management considering India have looted runs against Zimbabwe and England in their recent encounters. In fact, India narrowly avoided a defeat against England in the semis despite scoring 253 runs. Kuldeep, on the other hand, is yet to feature in a T20 World Cup contest on Indian soil. His only T20 World Cup game was against Pakistan in Colombo, where he had figures of 14/1. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli So it will be interesting to see who gets the nod in the final, as India are favourites to win. They have enjoyed a stellar run in the tournament, having lost only one match so far, which was against South Africa in the Super 8. India are also bidding to become the first team to defend their T20 World Cup title, which they also won in 2024.

<p>Varun Chakaravarthy's return of 186/4 in 16 overs has seen him attract critics and could face the heat in the final. His economy rate has become a huge concern for the team management considering India have looted runs against Zimbabwe and England in their recent encounters.&nbsp;</p>

IND vs NZ, T20 World Cup final: Kuldeep in, Varun out; will India pull the plug for high-stakes contest?

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC) has postponed its three-day meeting that was scheduled to be held in Doha, Qatar, from March 25 to 27. The decision was taken due to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. According to reports, the meeting has now been rescheduled for next month on the same continent. A formal communication regarding the change was sent to ICC members on Saturday, a day before the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 between the India and New Zealand at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The meeting was expected to be attended by ICC board directors, chief executives, committee members, and other senior officials. It is part of the organisation’s regular governance schedule and typically provides a platform to discuss key issues related to the present and future of international cricket.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-final-what-happens-if-rain-disrupts-ind-vs-nz-in-ahmedabad-1772868225345"><strong>T20 World Cup 2026 Final: What happens if rain disrupts IND vs NZ in Ahmedabad?</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The ICC had chosen Qatar as the venue because of the country’s increasing involvement in the sport. In a statement released on Feb 22, the council said its partnership with the Qatar Cricket Association and the Qatar Olympic Committee has helped cricket grow quickly in Qatar in recent years.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The ICC’s support of and collaboration with the Qatar Cricket Association and Olympic Committee, Cricket in Qatar has fuelled remarkable progress for the sport in recent years,” the ICC had said in a release.</p>

A formal communication regarding the change was sent to ICC members on Saturday, a day before the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 between the India and New Zealand at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has postponed its three-day meeting that was scheduled to be held in Doha, Qatar, from March 25 to 27. The decision was taken due to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. According to reports, the meeting has now been rescheduled for next month on the same continent. A formal communication regarding the change was sent to ICC members on Saturday, a day before the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 between the India and New Zealand at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The meeting was expected to be attended by ICC board directors, chief executives, committee members, and other senior officials. It is part of the organisation’s regular governance schedule and typically provides a platform to discuss key issues related to the present and future of international cricket. Also Read - T20 World Cup 2026 Final: What happens if rain disrupts IND vs NZ in Ahmedabad? The ICC had chosen Qatar as the venue because of the country’s increasing involvement in the sport. In a statement released on Feb 22, the council said its partnership with the Qatar Cricket Association and the Qatar Olympic Committee has helped cricket grow quickly in Qatar in recent years. “The ICC’s support of and collaboration with the Qatar Cricket Association and Olympic Committee, Cricket in Qatar has fuelled remarkable progress for the sport in recent years,” the ICC had said in a release.

<p>A formal communication regarding the change was sent to ICC members on Saturday, a day before the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 between the India and New Zealand at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.</p>

ICC postpones Doha meeting amid Middle East conflict: Reports

<p>India vs New Zealand T20 World Cup 2026 final is set to be played on Sunday (Mar 8) at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Both the teams last met in an ICC white-ball tournament final in Champions Trophy 2025 where India emerged victorious. In T20 WCs, however, India have never beaten New Zealand but it could change on Sunday, shall Surkyakumar Yadav's men defend their title. With multiple match-winners on both sides, it is the one-on-one match ups which could decide the winner.</p><h2>IND vs NZ, T20 World Cup 2026 Final - Match-ups which could decide winner</h2><p>The pitch in Ahmedabad is expected to be a similar to the one on Wankhede in Mumbai where India came out winners against England in a high-scoring thriller. If the mixed soil pitch at Narendra Modi Stadium turns out as good as Wankhede, the fans can expected a cracker of a final with plenty of runs on the board. While a batting surface makes bowlers' life tougher than it already is, it gives them a chance to taking more wickets if batters going in ultra-attack mode. Below are the match-ups which could decide the winner in the final:</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-final-ahmedabad-gears-up-for-ind-vs-nz-as-fans-hope-to-erase-memories-of-the-2023-heartbreak-1772947429977">T20 WC 2026 Final | Ahmedabad gears up to erase memories of 2023 heartbreak</a></p><p><strong>Sanju Samson vs Matt Henry: </strong>The Indian wicketkeeper-batter, in the last two matches, has proven his worth and repaid the faith shown in him by the team management. Henry, on the other hand, has not been at his best but could roar back to form in any match. This early showdown will dictate the pace of Indian run scoring which has been crucial in all their wins of the tournament.</p><p><strong>Jasprit Bumrah vs Finn Allen &amp; Tim Seifert:</strong> Both the Kiwi openers have been the bedrock of Blackcaps reaching the final. In the semis against SA, Allen showed how destructive he can be while Seifert played the second-fiddle and still scoring a blistering 58. Bumrah, Indi's cheat-code bowler in crunch situations, will be tasked with taming these two and it could very well decide the direction of the match.</p><p><strong>Rachin Ravindra vs India middle order:</strong> The Kiwi batting all-rounder has been phenomenal with the ball and his left-arm spin could be the key for New Zealand against a shaky Indian middle order. No one except Shivam Dube has been consistent and if Ravindra gets going, it could spell doom for India while trying to keep up with the temp in middle and slog overs.</p><p><strong>Varun Chakaravarthy vs New Zealand middle order:</strong> Just like India, New Zealand have also been dealing with middle order crises with only Glenn Phillips being somewhat consistent. While Chakaravarthy's form is a cause of concern, he still remains the best T20I bowler in the ICC Rankings and could very well change the game for India.</p>

With multiple match-winners on both sides, it is the one-on-one match ups which could decide the winner in IND vs NZ T20 World Cup 2026 final on Sunday (Mar 8) at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

India vs New Zealand T20 World Cup 2026 final is set to be played on Sunday (Mar 8) at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Both the teams last met in an ICC white-ball tournament final in Champions Trophy 2025 where India emerged victorious. In T20 WCs, however, India have never beaten New Zealand but it could change on Sunday, shall Surkyakumar Yadav's men defend their title. With multiple match-winners on both sides, it is the one-on-one match ups which could decide the winner. IND vs NZ, T20 World Cup 2026 Final - Match-ups which could decide winner The pitch in Ahmedabad is expected to be a similar to the one on Wankhede in Mumbai where India came out winners against England in a high-scoring thriller. If the mixed soil pitch at Narendra Modi Stadium turns out as good as Wankhede, the fans can expected a cracker of a final with plenty of runs on the board. While a batting surface makes bowlers' life tougher than it already is, it gives them a chance to taking more wickets if batters going in ultra-attack mode. Below are the match-ups which could decide the winner in the final: Also Read - T20 WC 2026 Final | Ahmedabad gears up to erase memories of 2023 heartbreak Sanju Samson vs Matt Henry: The Indian wicketkeeper-batter, in the last two matches, has proven his worth and repaid the faith shown in him by the team management. Henry, on the other hand, has not been at his best but could roar back to form in any match. This early showdown will dictate the pace of Indian run scoring which has been crucial in all their wins of the tournament. Jasprit Bumrah vs Finn Allen & Tim Seifert: Both the Kiwi openers have been the bedrock of Blackcaps reaching the final. In the semis against SA, Allen showed how destructive he can be while Seifert played the second-fiddle and still scoring a blistering 58. Bumrah, Indi's cheat-code bowler in crunch situations, will be tasked with taming these two and it could very well decide the direction of the match. Rachin Ravindra vs India middle order: The Kiwi batting all-rounder has been phenomenal with the ball and his left-arm spin could be the key for New Zealand against a shaky Indian middle order. No one except Shivam Dube has been consistent and if Ravindra gets going, it could spell doom for India while trying to keep up with the temp in middle and slog overs. Varun Chakaravarthy vs New Zealand middle order: Just like India, New Zealand have also been dealing with middle order crises with only Glenn Phillips being somewhat consistent. While Chakaravarthy's form is a cause of concern, he still remains the best T20I bowler in the ICC Rankings and could very well change the game for India.

<p>With multiple match-winners on both sides, it is the one-on-one match ups which could decide the winner in IND vs NZ T20 World Cup 2026 final on Sunday (Mar 8) at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.</p>

IND vs NZ, T20 World Cup 2026 Final | Who will decide the winner? Match-ups which could define outcome

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IND vs NZ, T20 World Cup 2026 Final | Match-ups which could decide winner